Fenerbahce striker Robin van Persie has told Feyenoord TV
that Manchester United's opening Europa League defeat has
created "a bit of a stir" and that it is "amazing" to be in the
same group as them.
Van Persie saw his side drawn in Group A against two of his
former clubs -- United and Feyenoord -- and was intrigued to
see the Premier League club lose 1-0 to the Dutch team on
the opening day.
The Netherlands striker, 33, is excited about the prospect of
facing United -- and has not ruled out a comeback to play in
England later in his career.
"We followed the draw when we were in the coach, on the way
to an away match," Van Persie said. "We first heard that we
were drawn with Manchester United, which was already
amazing for me. Feyenoord coming out as the third team was
absolutely brilliant.
"I keep up with the results of clubs I have played for.
Feyenoord is in first place and everyone is positive. Them even
beating Manchester United does create a bit of a stir."
Discussing the future, Van Persie -- who is contracted to
Fenerbahce until 2018 -- added: "We've moved around in
recent years and that suits me very well. Over the years, I have
seen that you cannot really plan your career. You have to take
it as it comes. There are all kinds of things in your path and
you accept it or not.
"That's how I will approach the last few years. I'm open to
everything. I've been away from the Netherlands for 13 years
and that suits me fine. Whether it's in England, Turkey or
wherever.
"The kids are involved. They are even more English than Dutch
because they grew up there. There comes a time when they
also get a bigger say in where they'd like to live and be."
On Thursday, Fenerbahce face Feyenoord at the Sukru
Saracoglu Stadium and United take on Zorya Luhansk at Old
Trafford.
The Turkish side snatched a 1-1 away against Zorya Luhansk
in their opening game thanks to Simon Kjaer's injury-time
equaliser.
Friday, 30 September 2016
LOFTUS-CHEEK: I LOOKED UP TO LAMPARD AT CHELSEA
LOFTUS-CHEEK: I LOOKED UP TO LAMPARD AT CHELSEA
The talented midfielder looked to one of the greatest ever to wear the Blues? shirt for guidance and inspiration as he made his way through the ranks at Stamford Bridge
Ruben Loftus-Cheek has revealed he looked up to Frank Lampard while coming through the ranks at Chelsea.
Despite playing in midfield, Lampard is the all-time leading goalscorer in the Blues? history, having struck 211 times in all competitions.
And as a central midfielder with an eye for goal himself, Loftus-Cheek has admitted that he looked to the West Ham academy product for guidance and inspiration.
?Growing up in the youth team, the player I looked up to most was Frank Lampard,? he said.
The talented midfielder looked to one of the greatest ever to wear the Blues? shirt for guidance and inspiration as he made his way through the ranks at Stamford Bridge
Ruben Loftus-Cheek has revealed he looked up to Frank Lampard while coming through the ranks at Chelsea.
Despite playing in midfield, Lampard is the all-time leading goalscorer in the Blues? history, having struck 211 times in all competitions.
And as a central midfielder with an eye for goal himself, Loftus-Cheek has admitted that he looked to the West Ham academy product for guidance and inspiration.
?Growing up in the youth team, the player I looked up to most was Frank Lampard,? he said.
MAN UTD FIXTURE LIST A 'POISONED GIFT' - MOURINHO,
MAN UTD FIXTURE LIST A 'POISONED GIFT' - MOURINHO,
The former Chelsea manager has hit out at the scheduling of his side's fixtures, giving particular attention to the grudge match with Liverpool on October 17, a Monday
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has described his team's hectic fixture list as a "poisoned gift".
Mourinho's men are set for a busy run after the international break, with five matches in 13 days.
And the former Chelsea boss, whose team beat Zorya 1-0 in the Europa League on Thursday, has hit out at the schedule, singling out his side's clash with Liverpool on Monday October 17 for particular scrutiny.
"Well, we could play Liverpool on the Saturday, we could play Liverpool on the Sunday, but we play Liverpool on the Monday [October 17]," Mourinho said.
The former Chelsea manager has hit out at the scheduling of his side's fixtures, giving particular attention to the grudge match with Liverpool on October 17, a Monday
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has described his team's hectic fixture list as a "poisoned gift".
Mourinho's men are set for a busy run after the international break, with five matches in 13 days.
And the former Chelsea boss, whose team beat Zorya 1-0 in the Europa League on Thursday, has hit out at the schedule, singling out his side's clash with Liverpool on Monday October 17 for particular scrutiny.
"Well, we could play Liverpool on the Saturday, we could play Liverpool on the Sunday, but we play Liverpool on the Monday [October 17]," Mourinho said.
LUKAKU: I AM NOT ON SUAREZ'S LEVEL YET,
LUKAKU: I AM NOT ON SUAREZ'S LEVEL YET,
The Everton and Belgium striker has acknowledged that he still has a long way to go before he is mentioned alongside the likes of the Barcelona star and Sergio Aguero
Everton striker Romelu Lukaku has acknowledged he still needs to improve if he is to reach the same level as Barcelona ace Luis Suarez and other top strikers.
Man Utd fixture list is a 'poisoned' gift - Mourinho
Lukaku netted 18 goals in 37 Premier League appearances last term, but the Toffees endured an inconsistent campaign and finished 11th in the table, costing Roberto Martinez his job at Goodison Park.
And the Belgium international says his ability to have a greater impact on his club's fortunes stands between him and reaching the highest level.
The Everton and Belgium striker has acknowledged that he still has a long way to go before he is mentioned alongside the likes of the Barcelona star and Sergio Aguero
Everton striker Romelu Lukaku has acknowledged he still needs to improve if he is to reach the same level as Barcelona ace Luis Suarez and other top strikers.
Man Utd fixture list is a 'poisoned' gift - Mourinho
Lukaku netted 18 goals in 37 Premier League appearances last term, but the Toffees endured an inconsistent campaign and finished 11th in the table, costing Roberto Martinez his job at Goodison Park.
And the Belgium international says his ability to have a greater impact on his club's fortunes stands between him and reaching the highest level.
The match officials who have been appointed for the Premier League Matchweek 7 fixtures are below.
The match officials who have been appointed for the Premier League Matchweek 7 fixtures are below.
FRIDAY 30 September,
7pm Everton vs Crystal Palace
Referee: Mark Clattenburg
Assistants: S Bennett, R West
Fourth official: K Friend
SATURDAY 1 October
11.30am Swansea City vs Liverpool
Referee: Michael Oliver
Assistants: G Beswick, A Nunn
Fourth official: P Tierney
2pm Hull City vs Chelsea
Referee: Anthony Taylor
Assistants: J Collin, I Hussin
Fourth official: M Jones
2pm Sunderland vs West Bromwich Albion
Referee: Stuart Attwell
Assistants: S Burt, D Bryan
Fourth official: M Atkinson
2pm Watford vs AFC Bournemouth
Referee: Mike Dean
Assistants: S Long, D Cook
Fourth official: G Scott
2pm West Ham United vs Middlesbrough
Referee: Neil Swarbrick
Assistants: D Cann, M Wilkes
Fourth official: A Marriner
SUNDAY 2 October
11am Manchester United v Stoke City
Referee: Bobby Madley
Assistants: M Perry, E Smart
Fourth official: M Jones
1:15pm Leicester City v Southampton
Referee: Martin Atkinson
Assistants: S Child, P Kirkup
Fourth official: R East
1:15pm Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester City
Referee: Andre Marriner
Assistants: S Beck, A Garratt
Fourth official: J Moss
3:30pm Burnley vs Arsenal
Referee: Craig Pawson
Assistants: A Holmes, S Ledger
Fourth official: L Mason
FRIDAY 30 September,
7pm Everton vs Crystal Palace
Referee: Mark Clattenburg
Assistants: S Bennett, R West
Fourth official: K Friend
SATURDAY 1 October
11.30am Swansea City vs Liverpool
Referee: Michael Oliver
Assistants: G Beswick, A Nunn
Fourth official: P Tierney
2pm Hull City vs Chelsea
Referee: Anthony Taylor
Assistants: J Collin, I Hussin
Fourth official: M Jones
2pm Sunderland vs West Bromwich Albion
Referee: Stuart Attwell
Assistants: S Burt, D Bryan
Fourth official: M Atkinson
2pm Watford vs AFC Bournemouth
Referee: Mike Dean
Assistants: S Long, D Cook
Fourth official: G Scott
2pm West Ham United vs Middlesbrough
Referee: Neil Swarbrick
Assistants: D Cann, M Wilkes
Fourth official: A Marriner
SUNDAY 2 October
11am Manchester United v Stoke City
Referee: Bobby Madley
Assistants: M Perry, E Smart
Fourth official: M Jones
1:15pm Leicester City v Southampton
Referee: Martin Atkinson
Assistants: S Child, P Kirkup
Fourth official: R East
1:15pm Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester City
Referee: Andre Marriner
Assistants: S Beck, A Garratt
Fourth official: J Moss
3:30pm Burnley vs Arsenal
Referee: Craig Pawson
Assistants: A Holmes, S Ledger
Fourth official: L Mason
Thursday, 29 September 2016
FRANCE SQUAD IN FULL:
FRANCE SQUAD IN FULL:
Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola (PSG), Hugo Lloris (Tottenham), Steve Mandanda (Crystal Palace)
Defenders: Lucas Digne (Barcelona), Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal), Layvin Kurzawa (PSG), Aymeric Laporte (Athletic Bilbao), Jeremy Mathieu (Barcelona), Bacary Sagna (Manchester City), Djibril Sidibe (Monaco), Raphael Varane (Real Madrid)
Midfielders : Yohan Cabaye (Crystal Palace), N'Golo Kante (Chelsea), Blaise Matuidi (PSG), Dimitri Payet (West Ham), Paul Pogba (Manchester United), Moussa Sissoko (Tottenham), Kingsley Coman (Bayern Munich), Nabil Fekir (Lyon)
Forwards : Kevin Gameiro (Atletico Madrid), Andre-Pierre Gignac (Tigres), Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid), Anthony Martial (Manchester United).
Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola (PSG), Hugo Lloris (Tottenham), Steve Mandanda (Crystal Palace)
Defenders: Lucas Digne (Barcelona), Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal), Layvin Kurzawa (PSG), Aymeric Laporte (Athletic Bilbao), Jeremy Mathieu (Barcelona), Bacary Sagna (Manchester City), Djibril Sidibe (Monaco), Raphael Varane (Real Madrid)
Midfielders : Yohan Cabaye (Crystal Palace), N'Golo Kante (Chelsea), Blaise Matuidi (PSG), Dimitri Payet (West Ham), Paul Pogba (Manchester United), Moussa Sissoko (Tottenham), Kingsley Coman (Bayern Munich), Nabil Fekir (Lyon)
Forwards : Kevin Gameiro (Atletico Madrid), Andre-Pierre Gignac (Tigres), Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid), Anthony Martial (Manchester United).
Barcelona and Real Madrid suspend European Super League talks
Barcelona and Real Madrid suspend European Super League talks
Barcelona and Real Madrid have assured La Liga officials that they will temporarily suspend any involvement with a breakaway European Super League and remain committed to participating in Spain's domestic division for the foreseeable future.
La Liga clubs met in private in Manchester over the past two days to discuss details of how they can forge a more united approach both domestically and internationally as part of their drive to catch up with the growing financial strength of the Premier League.
Adolfo Bara, La Liga's director general of marketing on future plans and global strategy, said, "For the time being, Barcelona and Real Madrid have given us an amnesty as far as the European Super League is concerned."
Barcelona and Real Madrid have assured La Liga officials that they will temporarily suspend any involvement with a breakaway European Super League and remain committed to participating in Spain's domestic division for the foreseeable future.
La Liga clubs met in private in Manchester over the past two days to discuss details of how they can forge a more united approach both domestically and internationally as part of their drive to catch up with the growing financial strength of the Premier League.
Adolfo Bara, La Liga's director general of marketing on future plans and global strategy, said, "For the time being, Barcelona and Real Madrid have given us an amnesty as far as the European Super League is concerned."
Metro TV CEO Promises Fat Qualification Bonuses For Great Olympics
Metro TV CEO Promises Fat Qualification Bonuses For Great Olympics
AFTER securing promotion from zone Three of the Division One League [DOL] to play in the nation?s top flight league next season, the playing body of Accra Great Olympics have promised an undisclosed special qualification bonus by Mr. Talal Fattal, CEO of Metro TV, and other members of the club?s Board of Directors.
The Accra-based traditional club gained promotion from the Division One League following a vital 2-1 wins over Mighty Jets in their penultimate league fixture at the MATS Park at Teshie ahead of the last game against Istanbul on Sunday.
An inside source revealed that, The players of the club will be given special money by the management team so the players can be motivated to perform better in the premiership next season.
It has been a difficult campaign for them which involved many difficult fixtures but they were able to sail through and we believe with this bonus they would be very pleased and can even play better next season , ?? he added .
ALSO READ: Ghana Striker Majeed Waris Donates Sports & Learning Items To School in Northern Region
According to him, the incentives would be given to the players after their final Division One League fixture against Istanbul at the Fire Service Park at Teshie.
Meanwhile, the Head Coach of the club Godwin Attram, has told the Graphic Sports that Olympics had returned to stay in the premiership for long and were ready to contend with every opposition.
We have been away for just two season and since we are back we will not struggle in the bottom three again.
we are here to show Ghanaians how Olympics have evolved in the past 10 months and compete with any club at the top. He said.
Source: Graphic Sports
AFTER securing promotion from zone Three of the Division One League [DOL] to play in the nation?s top flight league next season, the playing body of Accra Great Olympics have promised an undisclosed special qualification bonus by Mr. Talal Fattal, CEO of Metro TV, and other members of the club?s Board of Directors.
The Accra-based traditional club gained promotion from the Division One League following a vital 2-1 wins over Mighty Jets in their penultimate league fixture at the MATS Park at Teshie ahead of the last game against Istanbul on Sunday.
An inside source revealed that, The players of the club will be given special money by the management team so the players can be motivated to perform better in the premiership next season.
It has been a difficult campaign for them which involved many difficult fixtures but they were able to sail through and we believe with this bonus they would be very pleased and can even play better next season , ?? he added .
ALSO READ: Ghana Striker Majeed Waris Donates Sports & Learning Items To School in Northern Region
According to him, the incentives would be given to the players after their final Division One League fixture against Istanbul at the Fire Service Park at Teshie.
Meanwhile, the Head Coach of the club Godwin Attram, has told the Graphic Sports that Olympics had returned to stay in the premiership for long and were ready to contend with every opposition.
We have been away for just two season and since we are back we will not struggle in the bottom three again.
we are here to show Ghanaians how Olympics have evolved in the past 10 months and compete with any club at the top. He said.
Source: Graphic Sports
Bechem United Are Flying Their Players To Turkey To Sell
Bechem United Are Flying Their Players To Turkey To Sell
Ghana MTN FA Cup champions Bechem United will travel to Turkey for their pre-season training, but club say main aim of the trip is to finding market for their players in the European country.
The management of the Brong Ahafo-based side have said they are cash-strapped going into the CAF Confederations Cup next season and without any source of financial assistance, they have resorted to flying their players to Europe, specifically Turkey to do business.
Publish Relations Officer of the club Kwaku Danso told Atinka FM, the club plans to go to Europe to sell most of its players to finance their Africa campaign.
We will travel to Burkina Faso to play some friendly matches and also try shape up our squad for the confederations cup, Danso said
We will also travel to Turkey to play some matches but the Turkey trip will purely be business?,
ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Goalkeeper Eric Ofori Antwi Terminates Contract With Kotoko
You know we have no other source of funding for the club aside our owner pumping in his money so if the opportunity comes, we will take some of our key players there with the aim to sell to clubs in Turkey and make some money, He added
Ghana MTN FA Cup champions Bechem United will travel to Turkey for their pre-season training, but club say main aim of the trip is to finding market for their players in the European country.
The management of the Brong Ahafo-based side have said they are cash-strapped going into the CAF Confederations Cup next season and without any source of financial assistance, they have resorted to flying their players to Europe, specifically Turkey to do business.
Publish Relations Officer of the club Kwaku Danso told Atinka FM, the club plans to go to Europe to sell most of its players to finance their Africa campaign.
We will travel to Burkina Faso to play some friendly matches and also try shape up our squad for the confederations cup, Danso said
We will also travel to Turkey to play some matches but the Turkey trip will purely be business?,
ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Goalkeeper Eric Ofori Antwi Terminates Contract With Kotoko
You know we have no other source of funding for the club aside our owner pumping in his money so if the opportunity comes, we will take some of our key players there with the aim to sell to clubs in Turkey and make some money, He added
Current Ghanaian Players Are Bunch of Lazy Guys- Malik Jabir
Current Ghanaian Players Are Bunch of Lazy Guys- Malik Jabir
Ex Ghana international Malik Jabir has described the new generation of Ghanaian players as a pack of lazy guys who are physically not fit.
Jabir represented the Black Stars of Ghana between 1966 and 1977 and only missed out on a place in the 1978 Afcon squad after personally opting out.
In an interview with Kumasi-based Ultimate FM, Jabir explained that the difference between his generation of players and the current crop, the latter?s dedication to training and hardwork, resulting in their overall fitness, whiles the latter are just not serious about training.
The main difference lies in training. We used to do double sessions of 2 hours each, everyday. And if you missed one day, you were kicked out of the team.
Unfortunately, they have not seen the way we did things and don?t have any role models. The senior ones among them are lazy, and what you end up with is a pack of lazy guys,? he told host Benjamin Yamoah.
ALSO READ: Ghanaian Prophet Blames a Juventus Player For Kwadwo Asamoah's Injuries
Jabir, who has previously coached the national U-23 team the Black Meteors and is currently the technical director of Asante Kotoko, also bemoaned the lack of strength in the modern day Ghanaian footballer.
They are physically not fit and I think because they don?t eat the right food, they are not strong. A lot,? Jabir concluded.
Malik played for Asante Kotoko between 1964 and 1977, winning the Africa Cup of Champions (now CAF Champions league) in 1970 and as a manager in 1983.
Ex Ghana international Malik Jabir has described the new generation of Ghanaian players as a pack of lazy guys who are physically not fit.
Jabir represented the Black Stars of Ghana between 1966 and 1977 and only missed out on a place in the 1978 Afcon squad after personally opting out.
In an interview with Kumasi-based Ultimate FM, Jabir explained that the difference between his generation of players and the current crop, the latter?s dedication to training and hardwork, resulting in their overall fitness, whiles the latter are just not serious about training.
The main difference lies in training. We used to do double sessions of 2 hours each, everyday. And if you missed one day, you were kicked out of the team.
Unfortunately, they have not seen the way we did things and don?t have any role models. The senior ones among them are lazy, and what you end up with is a pack of lazy guys,? he told host Benjamin Yamoah.
ALSO READ: Ghanaian Prophet Blames a Juventus Player For Kwadwo Asamoah's Injuries
Jabir, who has previously coached the national U-23 team the Black Meteors and is currently the technical director of Asante Kotoko, also bemoaned the lack of strength in the modern day Ghanaian footballer.
They are physically not fit and I think because they don?t eat the right food, they are not strong. A lot,? Jabir concluded.
Malik played for Asante Kotoko between 1964 and 1977, winning the Africa Cup of Champions (now CAF Champions league) in 1970 and as a manager in 1983.
Premier League Statistic so far....
[9/29, 11:29 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Most goals
1. Manchester City 18
2. Liverpool 16
3. Arsenal 15
4. Manchester United 12
5. Chelsea 10
6. Crystal Palace 10
7. Everton 10
8. Tottenham Hotspur 10
9. Watford 10
10. Leicester City 8
11. Hull City 7
12. Southampton 7
13. West Bromwich Albion 7
14. West Ham United 7
15. Middlesbrough 6
16. Burnley 5
17. Sunderland 5
18. Swansea City 5
19. Bournemouth 4
20. Stoke City 4
[9/29, 11:29 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Hits woodwork
1. Man City 4
2. Bournemouth 3
3. Everton 3
4. Tottenham Hotspur 3
5. Hull City 2
6. Liverpool 2
7. Middlesbrough 2
8. Southampton 2
9. Chelsea 1
10. Leicester City 1
11. Manchester United 1
12. Stoke City 1
13. Swansea City 1
14. Watford 1
15. West Bromwich Albion 1
16. West Ham United 1
17...... 0
18.......0
19..... ..0
20........0
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Goals from Header
1. Crystal Palace 5
2. West Ham United 5
3. Manchester United 4
4. Everton 3
5. Middlesbrough 3
6. West Bromwich Albion 3
7. Arsenal 2
8. Burnley 2
9. Leicester City 2
10. Manchester City 2
11. Tottenham Hotspur 2
12. Swansea City 1
The rest zero.
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Goals from counter attacks
1. Man City 3
2. Arsenal 1
3. Chelsea 1
4. Manchester United 1
5. Tottenham Hotspur 1
6. West Bromwich 1
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Goals from outside the box
1. Burnley 3
2. Liverpool 3
3. Chelsea 2
4. Crystal Palace 2
5. Manchester City 2
6. Stoke City 2
7. Arsenal 1
8. Bournemouth 1
9. Everton 1
10. Hull City 1
11. Leicester City 1
12. Manchester United 1
13. Middlesbrough 1
14. Southampton 1
15. Watford 1
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Goals from penalties
1. Liverpool 3
2. Manchester City 3
3. Arsenal 2
4. Chelsea 1
5. Hull City 1
6. Leicester City 1
7. Manchester United 1
8. Stoke City 1
9. Sunderland 1
10. Swansea City 1
11. Watford 1
12. West Bromwich Albion 1
13. West Ham United 1
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Most goals concedes.
1. West Ham United 16
2. Stoke City 15
3. Hull City 12
4. Sunderland 12
5. Leicester City 11
6. Watford 11
7. Swansea City 10
8. Bournemouth 9
9. Chelsea 9
10. Liverpool 9
11. Middlesbrough 9
12. Burnley 8
13. Arsenal 7
14. Crystal Palace 7
15. Manchester United 7
16. Southampton 6
17. West Bromwich Albion 6
18. Manchester City 5
19. Everton 4
20. Tottenham Hotspur 3
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Most red card
1. Hull City 2
2. Bournemouth 1
3. Manchester City 1
4. Sunderland 1
5. Watford 1
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Most backwards passes
1. Manchester City 562
2. Liverpool 528
3. Chelsea 491
4. Southampton 482
5. Arsenal 476
6. Middlesbrough 469
7. Hull City 460
8. Manchester United 456
9. Tottenham Hotspur 446
10. Everton 442
11. Crystal Palace 431
12. Bournemouth 384
13. Leicester City 354
14. Watford 338
15. West Ham United 336
16. Burnley 335
17. Swansea City 316
18. Stoke City 276
19. West Bromwich Albion 251
20. Sunderland 225
1. Manchester City 18
2. Liverpool 16
3. Arsenal 15
4. Manchester United 12
5. Chelsea 10
6. Crystal Palace 10
7. Everton 10
8. Tottenham Hotspur 10
9. Watford 10
10. Leicester City 8
11. Hull City 7
12. Southampton 7
13. West Bromwich Albion 7
14. West Ham United 7
15. Middlesbrough 6
16. Burnley 5
17. Sunderland 5
18. Swansea City 5
19. Bournemouth 4
20. Stoke City 4
[9/29, 11:29 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Hits woodwork
1. Man City 4
2. Bournemouth 3
3. Everton 3
4. Tottenham Hotspur 3
5. Hull City 2
6. Liverpool 2
7. Middlesbrough 2
8. Southampton 2
9. Chelsea 1
10. Leicester City 1
11. Manchester United 1
12. Stoke City 1
13. Swansea City 1
14. Watford 1
15. West Bromwich Albion 1
16. West Ham United 1
17...... 0
18.......0
19..... ..0
20........0
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Goals from Header
1. Crystal Palace 5
2. West Ham United 5
3. Manchester United 4
4. Everton 3
5. Middlesbrough 3
6. West Bromwich Albion 3
7. Arsenal 2
8. Burnley 2
9. Leicester City 2
10. Manchester City 2
11. Tottenham Hotspur 2
12. Swansea City 1
The rest zero.
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Goals from counter attacks
1. Man City 3
2. Arsenal 1
3. Chelsea 1
4. Manchester United 1
5. Tottenham Hotspur 1
6. West Bromwich 1
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Goals from outside the box
1. Burnley 3
2. Liverpool 3
3. Chelsea 2
4. Crystal Palace 2
5. Manchester City 2
6. Stoke City 2
7. Arsenal 1
8. Bournemouth 1
9. Everton 1
10. Hull City 1
11. Leicester City 1
12. Manchester United 1
13. Middlesbrough 1
14. Southampton 1
15. Watford 1
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Goals from penalties
1. Liverpool 3
2. Manchester City 3
3. Arsenal 2
4. Chelsea 1
5. Hull City 1
6. Leicester City 1
7. Manchester United 1
8. Stoke City 1
9. Sunderland 1
10. Swansea City 1
11. Watford 1
12. West Bromwich Albion 1
13. West Ham United 1
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Most goals concedes.
1. West Ham United 16
2. Stoke City 15
3. Hull City 12
4. Sunderland 12
5. Leicester City 11
6. Watford 11
7. Swansea City 10
8. Bournemouth 9
9. Chelsea 9
10. Liverpool 9
11. Middlesbrough 9
12. Burnley 8
13. Arsenal 7
14. Crystal Palace 7
15. Manchester United 7
16. Southampton 6
17. West Bromwich Albion 6
18. Manchester City 5
19. Everton 4
20. Tottenham Hotspur 3
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Most red card
1. Hull City 2
2. Bournemouth 1
3. Manchester City 1
4. Sunderland 1
5. Watford 1
[9/29, 11:30 AM] ?+265 884 08 48 34?: Most backwards passes
1. Manchester City 562
2. Liverpool 528
3. Chelsea 491
4. Southampton 482
5. Arsenal 476
6. Middlesbrough 469
7. Hull City 460
8. Manchester United 456
9. Tottenham Hotspur 446
10. Everton 442
11. Crystal Palace 431
12. Bournemouth 384
13. Leicester City 354
14. Watford 338
15. West Ham United 336
16. Burnley 335
17. Swansea City 316
18. Stoke City 276
19. West Bromwich Albion 251
20. Sunderland 225
Most losses.
Most losses.
1. Sunderland 5
2. West Ham United 5
3. Stoke City 4
4. Swansea City 4
5. Bournemouth 3
6. Burnley 3
7. Hull City 3
8. Leicester City 3
9. Middlesbrough 3
10. Watford 3
11. Chelsea 2
12. Crystal Palace 2
13. Manchester United 2
14. Southampton 2
15. West Bromwich Albion 2
16. Arsenal 1
17. Everton 1
18. Liverpool 1
19. spurs 0
20. man city 0
1. Sunderland 5
2. West Ham United 5
3. Stoke City 4
4. Swansea City 4
5. Bournemouth 3
6. Burnley 3
7. Hull City 3
8. Leicester City 3
9. Middlesbrough 3
10. Watford 3
11. Chelsea 2
12. Crystal Palace 2
13. Manchester United 2
14. Southampton 2
15. West Bromwich Albion 2
16. Arsenal 1
17. Everton 1
18. Liverpool 1
19. spurs 0
20. man city 0
Most yellow cards
Most yellow cards
1. Watford 20
2. Chelsea 17
3. Stoke City 16
4. West Ham United 16
5. West Bromwich Albion 15
6. Crystal Palace 13
7. Manchester City 13
8. Liverpool 12
9. Manchester United 12
10. Middlesbrough 11
11. Southampton 11
12. Sunderland 11
13. Arsenal 10
14. Swansea City 10
15. Tottenham Hotspur 10
16. Burnley 9
17. Leicester City 9
18. Everton 8
19. AFC Bournemouth 6
20. Hull City 6
1. Watford 20
2. Chelsea 17
3. Stoke City 16
4. West Ham United 16
5. West Bromwich Albion 15
6. Crystal Palace 13
7. Manchester City 13
8. Liverpool 12
9. Manchester United 12
10. Middlesbrough 11
11. Southampton 11
12. Sunderland 11
13. Arsenal 10
14. Swansea City 10
15. Tottenham Hotspur 10
16. Burnley 9
17. Leicester City 9
18. Everton 8
19. AFC Bournemouth 6
20. Hull City 6
Best goal ratios of Premier League players
Best goal ratios of Premier League players
28/9/2016
Sergio Aguero boasts the most prolific mins-per-goal ratio in PL history, but which other players to have scored at least ten goals also make the top 10?
#1: Sergio AgueroMatches: 154
Goals: 107
Mins per goal: 106.0
#2: Thierry HenryMatches: 258
Goals: 175
Mins per goal: 121.8
#3: Adam Le FondreMatches: 34
Goals: 12
Mins per goal: 124.3
#4: Ruud van NistelrooyMatches: 150
Goals: 95
Mins per goal: 128.2
#5: Javier HernandezMatches: 103
Goals: 37
Mins per goal: 130.2
#6: Diego CostaMatches: 60
Goals: 37
Mins per goal: 134.9
#7: Harry KaneMatches: 91
Goals: 51
Mins per goal: 137.4
#8: Luis SuarezMatches: 110
Goals: 69
Mins per goal: 138.8
#9: Robin van PersieMatches: 280
Goals: 144
Mins per goal: 139.7
#10: Hernan CrespoMatches: 49
Goals: 20
Mins per goal: 140.7
28/9/2016
Sergio Aguero boasts the most prolific mins-per-goal ratio in PL history, but which other players to have scored at least ten goals also make the top 10?
#1: Sergio AgueroMatches: 154
Goals: 107
Mins per goal: 106.0
#2: Thierry HenryMatches: 258
Goals: 175
Mins per goal: 121.8
#3: Adam Le FondreMatches: 34
Goals: 12
Mins per goal: 124.3
#4: Ruud van NistelrooyMatches: 150
Goals: 95
Mins per goal: 128.2
#5: Javier HernandezMatches: 103
Goals: 37
Mins per goal: 130.2
#6: Diego CostaMatches: 60
Goals: 37
Mins per goal: 134.9
#7: Harry KaneMatches: 91
Goals: 51
Mins per goal: 137.4
#8: Luis SuarezMatches: 110
Goals: 69
Mins per goal: 138.8
#9: Robin van PersieMatches: 280
Goals: 144
Mins per goal: 139.7
#10: Hernan CrespoMatches: 49
Goals: 20
Mins per goal: 140.7
JUST LET HIM PLAY' - POGBA TIPPED TO SHINE IN FREE ROLE BY FORTUNE
'JUST LET HIM PLAY' - POGBA TIPPED TO
SHINE IN FREE ROLE BY FORTUNE
The world's most expensive footballer settled into life at Old Trafford with a goal against Leicester and the ex-South Africa international believes there is more to come Paul Pogba can become an all-time Manchester United great if he?s allowed to flourish in a free role
according to former United player Quinton Fortune EIGHT Premier League managers accused of taking bungs.
The worlds most expensive footballer thrived in a more advanced role during the 4-1 win against
Leicester City last weekend and Fortune believes the key to success is surrounding Pogba with players who allow him freedom to express himself. The 23-year-old opened his United account with a
goal against the champions in the absence of Wayne Rooney and Fortune says there is much more to
come from the ex-Juventus star. For me, his role?s just got to be to play his game, let
the team win and his natural ability will show,
Fortune told Goal. Griezmann is final chance to challenge for Ballon d Or
They have got more ball players around him now. [Juan] Mata and [Ander] Herrera allow him to be free. The problem with Pogba is that he is strong, can defend and attack - he can do everything. Sometimes that can be a negative thing. Just put him on the pitch, forget all the complications and the tactical stuff. Just let the kid play. At Juventus, Pogba was accompanied in midfield by
the likes of Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, Arturo Vidal and Sami Khedira, and Fortune tips Pogba to shine when he gains a strong understanding with his current United team-mates.
When he was so successful at Juve, the players around him were Pirlo and Vidal, said Fortune. He
was allowed to express himself. Pirlo left and he took over that role and became more responsible. You will get to see that confidence, the understanding with team-mates. He is come into a team where they have been playing a certain style for two years and he is come in with a new style. [Jose] Mourinho is trying to implement his way of playing.
Verratti: I'm here to win CL Eyebrows were raised when United sanctioned a world record 110m deal to re-sign their own former youth team player but Fortune insists that it was the
right thing to do regardless of the price tag. I would ve done anything to get him back, Fortune
admitted. We didnt want him to leave in the first place. We all know, even before he left, what he was like. He?s got stronger at Juve, he is a better player now for that experience.
He scored a good goal so that will settle him down. Everyone will support him and they love him from before. He is a very humble guy. You speak to everyone at the training ground and they say he is anamazing kid who is not fazed by the hype. He gets on with the job. Allardyce hits back at media Fortune recognises that Pogba had to endure some tough moments in his first few United outings but put that down to the player attempting to prove himself too quickly in a new environment.
Like every human being he wanted to do everything at the beginning, Fortune said. That happens with the pressure, the price tag, but now he looks like hes taking it in his stride, not trying to do stuff he hasnt before.
But to have a player like that in your team is fantastic. He is coming from Italy where it?s more
tactical. The Premier League is tough. Ben Arfa fighting to save PSG career Some players take a season to adapt; he?s having to adapt quickly because of the price tag. Some wouldn?t be able to deal with it. He was probably trying too hard the first few games I m Pogba, Im here and want to show you - but is showing what he can do now. Theres much more to come.
SHINE IN FREE ROLE BY FORTUNE
The world's most expensive footballer settled into life at Old Trafford with a goal against Leicester and the ex-South Africa international believes there is more to come Paul Pogba can become an all-time Manchester United great if he?s allowed to flourish in a free role
according to former United player Quinton Fortune EIGHT Premier League managers accused of taking bungs.
The worlds most expensive footballer thrived in a more advanced role during the 4-1 win against
Leicester City last weekend and Fortune believes the key to success is surrounding Pogba with players who allow him freedom to express himself. The 23-year-old opened his United account with a
goal against the champions in the absence of Wayne Rooney and Fortune says there is much more to
come from the ex-Juventus star. For me, his role?s just got to be to play his game, let
the team win and his natural ability will show,
Fortune told Goal. Griezmann is final chance to challenge for Ballon d Or
They have got more ball players around him now. [Juan] Mata and [Ander] Herrera allow him to be free. The problem with Pogba is that he is strong, can defend and attack - he can do everything. Sometimes that can be a negative thing. Just put him on the pitch, forget all the complications and the tactical stuff. Just let the kid play. At Juventus, Pogba was accompanied in midfield by
the likes of Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, Arturo Vidal and Sami Khedira, and Fortune tips Pogba to shine when he gains a strong understanding with his current United team-mates.
When he was so successful at Juve, the players around him were Pirlo and Vidal, said Fortune. He
was allowed to express himself. Pirlo left and he took over that role and became more responsible. You will get to see that confidence, the understanding with team-mates. He is come into a team where they have been playing a certain style for two years and he is come in with a new style. [Jose] Mourinho is trying to implement his way of playing.
Verratti: I'm here to win CL Eyebrows were raised when United sanctioned a world record 110m deal to re-sign their own former youth team player but Fortune insists that it was the
right thing to do regardless of the price tag. I would ve done anything to get him back, Fortune
admitted. We didnt want him to leave in the first place. We all know, even before he left, what he was like. He?s got stronger at Juve, he is a better player now for that experience.
He scored a good goal so that will settle him down. Everyone will support him and they love him from before. He is a very humble guy. You speak to everyone at the training ground and they say he is anamazing kid who is not fazed by the hype. He gets on with the job. Allardyce hits back at media Fortune recognises that Pogba had to endure some tough moments in his first few United outings but put that down to the player attempting to prove himself too quickly in a new environment.
Like every human being he wanted to do everything at the beginning, Fortune said. That happens with the pressure, the price tag, but now he looks like hes taking it in his stride, not trying to do stuff he hasnt before.
But to have a player like that in your team is fantastic. He is coming from Italy where it?s more
tactical. The Premier League is tough. Ben Arfa fighting to save PSG career Some players take a season to adapt; he?s having to adapt quickly because of the price tag. Some wouldn?t be able to deal with it. He was probably trying too hard the first few games I m Pogba, Im here and want to show you - but is showing what he can do now. Theres much more to come.
Gary Neville: Ibrahimovic-Rashford the ideal strike pairing for Man Utd
Ibrahimovic-Rashford the ideal strike pairing for Man Utd ? Gary Neville
Gary Neville believes the forward pairing of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marcus Rashford will see Manchester United reap the most reward. The duo shone alongside each other in the weekend demolition of Leicester City, and the former Red Devils' captain backs them to keep it up together.
The duo formed part of the devastating United attack that put Leicester City to the sword in a 4-1 victory at Old Trafford last weekend.
Rashford - who has forced his way into Jose Mourinho's plans - scored the third of four first-half goals for the hosts, who dropped captain Wayne Rooney to the bench. Neville said, "Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marcus Rashford seem to be a fit. Ibrahimovic is clever enough to find the runs of Rashford. Rashford is clever too. He isn't just a runner and a finisher."
Gary Neville believes the forward pairing of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marcus Rashford will see Manchester United reap the most reward. The duo shone alongside each other in the weekend demolition of Leicester City, and the former Red Devils' captain backs them to keep it up together.
The duo formed part of the devastating United attack that put Leicester City to the sword in a 4-1 victory at Old Trafford last weekend.
Rashford - who has forced his way into Jose Mourinho's plans - scored the third of four first-half goals for the hosts, who dropped captain Wayne Rooney to the bench. Neville said, "Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marcus Rashford seem to be a fit. Ibrahimovic is clever enough to find the runs of Rashford. Rashford is clever too. He isn't just a runner and a finisher."
Wednesday, 28 September 2016
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has arrived in the Egyptian capital Cairo
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has arrived in the Egyptian capital, Cairo, for the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly scheduled for Thursday, 29 September 2016.
He touched down on the morning of Wednesday, 28 September 2016 and was met on arrival by a CAF delegation led by its President, Issa Hayatou. The delegation included members of the CAF Executive Committee and officials of the Egyptian Football Association.
The CAF Extraordinary General Assembly will be the first time Infantino will be attending the session which represents the legislative and supreme organ of CAF on African soil since taking over the reins of FIFA last February.
He previously attended the 38th CAF Ordinary General Assembly held on 11 May 2016 in Mexico City, Mexico.
Meanwhile, preparations for the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly has reached fever pitch with the arrival of delegates from the various National Associations.
High on the agenda is the election of two persons onto the FIFA Council, taking Africa?s representation to seven.
The contenders are Ahmad (Madagascar), Almamy Kabele Camara (Guinea), Djibrilla Hima Hamidou (Niger), Kwesi Nyantakyi (Ghana) and Augustin Senghor (Senegal).
He touched down on the morning of Wednesday, 28 September 2016 and was met on arrival by a CAF delegation led by its President, Issa Hayatou. The delegation included members of the CAF Executive Committee and officials of the Egyptian Football Association.
The CAF Extraordinary General Assembly will be the first time Infantino will be attending the session which represents the legislative and supreme organ of CAF on African soil since taking over the reins of FIFA last February.
He previously attended the 38th CAF Ordinary General Assembly held on 11 May 2016 in Mexico City, Mexico.
Meanwhile, preparations for the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly has reached fever pitch with the arrival of delegates from the various National Associations.
High on the agenda is the election of two persons onto the FIFA Council, taking Africa?s representation to seven.
The contenders are Ahmad (Madagascar), Almamy Kabele Camara (Guinea), Djibrilla Hima Hamidou (Niger), Kwesi Nyantakyi (Ghana) and Augustin Senghor (Senegal).
Ferdinand: on Rashford
Ferdinand: “I think Marcus Rashford should be selected for the senior squad next week and be unleashed against Malta. Including his hat-trick for the U21s against Norway earlier this month, no English striker has scored more goals since he made his professional debut in February. I don’t care how old you are, that record warrants a place in the squad. He has been the best striker in this country since February in terms of output - the statistics don’t lie.”
Thiago Alcantara: Atletico defence best in the world
Thiago: Atletico defence best in the world
Thiago Alcantara believes Bayern Munich are facing the best defensive side in the world in Atletico Madrid, but is confident they can triumph in Wednesday's Champions League encounter. The Spaniard is well aware of how strong Diego Simeone's side are at the back and is keen for revenge after losing out to them last term.
However, Thiago believes that Bayern - now coached by Carlo Ancelotti - have learnt plenty of lessons from that two-leg defeat and is backing the team to leave the Vicente Calderon with all three points.
He said, "It's important for us to win the away games, or at least take home as many points as possible. They defend better than us, better than Barcelona, better than any other team in the world. It will be tough."
Thiago Alcantara believes Bayern Munich are facing the best defensive side in the world in Atletico Madrid, but is confident they can triumph in Wednesday's Champions League encounter. The Spaniard is well aware of how strong Diego Simeone's side are at the back and is keen for revenge after losing out to them last term.
However, Thiago believes that Bayern - now coached by Carlo Ancelotti - have learnt plenty of lessons from that two-leg defeat and is backing the team to leave the Vicente Calderon with all three points.
He said, "It's important for us to win the away games, or at least take home as many points as possible. They defend better than us, better than Barcelona, better than any other team in the world. It will be tough."
ENGLISH FOOTBALL STATISTICS
ENGLISH FOOTBALL STATS
MOST CHAMPIONSHIPS
1. 20 - Manchester United
2. 18 - Liverpool
3. 13 - Arsenal
MOST FA CUPS
1. 12 - Arsenal
1. 12 - Mancester United
3. 8 - Tottenham Hotspurs
MOST CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
1. 5 - Liverpool
2. 3 - Manchester United
3. 2 - Nottingham Forrest
MOST COMMUNITY SHIELDS
1. 21 - Manchester United
2. 15 - Liverpool
3. 14 - Arsenal
MOST TROPHIES OVERALL
1. 63 - Manchester United
2. 60 - Liverpool
3. 43 - Arsenal
MOST RELEGATED CLUBS
1. 5 - Chelsea
2. 5 - Manchester City
3. 4 - Tottenham Hotspurs
Now know the big clubs belong and where the small clubs belong.
From today know ur size u small clubs
MOST CHAMPIONSHIPS
1. 20 - Manchester United
2. 18 - Liverpool
3. 13 - Arsenal
MOST FA CUPS
1. 12 - Arsenal
1. 12 - Mancester United
3. 8 - Tottenham Hotspurs
MOST CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
1. 5 - Liverpool
2. 3 - Manchester United
3. 2 - Nottingham Forrest
MOST COMMUNITY SHIELDS
1. 21 - Manchester United
2. 15 - Liverpool
3. 14 - Arsenal
MOST TROPHIES OVERALL
1. 63 - Manchester United
2. 60 - Liverpool
3. 43 - Arsenal
MOST RELEGATED CLUBS
1. 5 - Chelsea
2. 5 - Manchester City
3. 4 - Tottenham Hotspurs
Now know the big clubs belong and where the small clubs belong.
From today know ur size u small clubs
Phil Jones is closing in on a first-team return after suffering ligament damage
Manchester United have had a fantastic week, beating
Northampton to progress in the cup and then backing
that up with a stunning 4-1 victory at home to Leicester
City. Now they are set to welcome another player back
from an injury.
Phil Jones is closing in on a first-team return after suffering ligament damage, which must
be a huge relief to Jose Mourinho, who is yet to see the 24-year-old in action.
United?s defender hasn?t featured for the first-team since January due to a whole host of injuries, but Jose clearly has faith in him after giving the centre-back a spot in his
25-man Premier League squad.
The next few months are absolutely huge for the man
once touted as the next Duncan Edwards, and this season certainly feels like make or break for him.
Hopefully, he can get over this injury and come back
stronger. Then really kick on and cement a place in the
starting line-up for the rest of the season.
Northampton to progress in the cup and then backing
that up with a stunning 4-1 victory at home to Leicester
City. Now they are set to welcome another player back
from an injury.
Phil Jones is closing in on a first-team return after suffering ligament damage, which must
be a huge relief to Jose Mourinho, who is yet to see the 24-year-old in action.
United?s defender hasn?t featured for the first-team since January due to a whole host of injuries, but Jose clearly has faith in him after giving the centre-back a spot in his
25-man Premier League squad.
The next few months are absolutely huge for the man
once touted as the next Duncan Edwards, and this season certainly feels like make or break for him.
Hopefully, he can get over this injury and come back
stronger. Then really kick on and cement a place in the
starting line-up for the rest of the season.
Allardyce: England manager leaves after one match in charge!
Breaking: Allardyce: England manager leaves after one match in charge!
Sam Allardyce has left his post as England manager by mutual agreement with the Football Association after one match and 67 days in charge.
It follows a newspaper investigation claiming he offered advice on how to "get around" rules on player transfers.
Allardyce, 61, is also alleged to have used his role to negotiate a deal worth �400,000 to represent a Far East firm.
An FA statement said Allardyce's conduct "was inappropriate" and Gareth Southgate will take temporary charge.
Sam Allardyce has left his post as England manager by mutual agreement with the Football Association after one match and 67 days in charge.
It follows a newspaper investigation claiming he offered advice on how to "get around" rules on player transfers.
Allardyce, 61, is also alleged to have used his role to negotiate a deal worth �400,000 to represent a Far East firm.
An FA statement said Allardyce's conduct "was inappropriate" and Gareth Southgate will take temporary charge.
Tuesday, 27 September 2016
Smalling: Rooney Still Our Main Man
Smalling: Rooney Still Our Main Man
Manchester United? defender Chris Smalling has claimed that captain ?Wayne Rooney is still the club's main man. Rooney was dropped by ??Jose Mourinho on Saturday for the clash against ??champions Leicester City??.
"Whatever the situation is, whatever game, whether he is on the bench or playing or whatever, he is always that same type of character and that's why he is England's main man and our main man," saidsmalling.
Manchester United? defender Chris Smalling has claimed that captain ?Wayne Rooney is still the club's main man. Rooney was dropped by ??Jose Mourinho on Saturday for the clash against ??champions Leicester City??.
"Whatever the situation is, whatever game, whether he is on the bench or playing or whatever, he is always that same type of character and that's why he is England's main man and our main man," saidsmalling.
Monday, 26 September 2016
SPORTS TRANSFER GOSSIP
Manchester City and Chelsea want to sign Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci, 29, in January. (Daily Star)
However, Juve director Giuseppe Marotta says there has been no contact from City. (Mediaset Premium via Manchester Evening News)
Striker Wayne Rooney, 30, is prepared to accept he is no longer an automatic pick for Manchester United following manager Jose Mourinho's decision to drop him for Saturday's match against Leicester. (Daily Mirror)
Borussia Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, 27, says he "made a promise" to his dying grandfather to one day become a Real Madrid player. (Sun)
Stoke City are considering bringing in former Hull boss Steve Bruce to replace Mark Hughes. (Daily Express)
Manchester United might have a better chance of signing 25-year-old Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann now he has left his agent.
(Independent)
Former Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski says midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger, 32, might leave Manchester United for Major League Soccer in the United States . (Bild - in German)
Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs is to meet with Swansea's United States investors before their takeover at Liberty Stadium. The new owners also want to talk to former USA coach Bob Bradley. (The Sun)
Nearly 15,000 people have signed a petition calling for hedge-fund owners Sisu to sell Coventry City. (Coventry Telegraph)
Premier League champions Leicester City are struggling to defend set-pieces because of a grappling crackdown, says full-back Danny Simpson. (Daily Telegraph)
Best of social media
Bristol City's former West Ham midfielder Gary O'Neil is perplexed by the Hammers' recent poor fortunes. The east London club were beaten 3-0 at home by Southampton and remain 17th in the Premier League with three points.
And is this ex-Manchester United defender a good luck charm? Nemanja Vidic was at Old Trafford on Saturday to watch his former side defeat Leicester 4-1.
Former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba hits back after Arsenal forward Theo Walcott tweets his delight at beating Chelsea 3-0 on Saturday.
And finally
Newcastle United goalkeeper Matz Sels closed his Twitter account following criticism from some of the club's fans after the 1-1 draw at Aston Villa.
RAIOLA: IBRAHIMOVIC THREATENED TO BREAK MY LEGS OVER POGBA DEAL,
RAIOLA: IBRAHIMOVIC THREATENED TO BREAK MY LEGS OVER POGBA DEAL,
The representative revealed his client's bizarre ultimatum over the biggest transfer of the summer - which as a taekwondo black belt, may not have been entirely in jest!
Zlatan Ibrahimovic's agent Mino Raiola has claimed the experienced attacker threatened to "break his legs" if he allowed Paul Pogba to move anywhere other than Manchester United.
Raiola represents both players and he has revealed Ibrahimovic made it very clear that he would be unhappy if the France international did not end up at Old Trafford.
The representative revealed his client's bizarre ultimatum over the biggest transfer of the summer - which as a taekwondo black belt, may not have been entirely in jest!
Zlatan Ibrahimovic's agent Mino Raiola has claimed the experienced attacker threatened to "break his legs" if he allowed Paul Pogba to move anywhere other than Manchester United.
Raiola represents both players and he has revealed Ibrahimovic made it very clear that he would be unhappy if the France international did not end up at Old Trafford.
INJURED DE BRUYNE DOUBTFUL FOR BARCELONA & MAN UTD CLASHES
INJURED DE BRUYNE DOUBTFUL FOR BARCELONA & MAN UTD CLASHES
The midfielder is facing four weeks on the sidelines, meaning he is likely to miss the trip to Camp Nou on October 19 and potentially the derby on October 26
Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne faces around a month on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.
The Belgium midfielder limped out of City's 3-1 victory at Swansea City on Saturday afternoon after playing a part in two of the Blues' goals.
Pep Guardiola revealed after the match that De Bruyne would undergo scans on Sunday, and according to sources close to the player those initial tests have detected a muscle tear.
The 25-year-old is expected to travel to Barcelona on Monday for further tests and treatment, according to City Watch .
The midfielder is facing four weeks on the sidelines, meaning he is likely to miss the trip to Camp Nou on October 19 and potentially the derby on October 26
Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne faces around a month on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.
The Belgium midfielder limped out of City's 3-1 victory at Swansea City on Saturday afternoon after playing a part in two of the Blues' goals.
Pep Guardiola revealed after the match that De Bruyne would undergo scans on Sunday, and according to sources close to the player those initial tests have detected a muscle tear.
The 25-year-old is expected to travel to Barcelona on Monday for further tests and treatment, according to City Watch .
MAN CITY MUST TELL'S GUARDIOLA TO STOP, SAYS TOURE'S AGENT,
MAN CITY MUST TELL 'S GUARDIOLA TO STOP, SAYS TOURE'S AGENT,
The midfielder has been frozen out under the Catalan boss, and his representative has again taken the former Barcelona head coach to task over his treatment of his client
Yaya Toure's agent Dimitri Seluk has launched a fresh attack on Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, urging the club to intervene and tell him the midfielder is considered as "family" at the Etihad Stadium.
The midfielder has been frozen out under the Catalan boss, and his representative has again taken the former Barcelona head coach to task over his treatment of his client
Yaya Toure's agent Dimitri Seluk has launched a fresh attack on Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, urging the club to intervene and tell him the midfielder is considered as "family" at the Etihad Stadium.
AURIER HANDED TWO-MONTH PRISON SENTENCE
AURIER HANDED TWO-MONTH PRISON SENTENCE
The PSG full-back was in court on Monday over an attack on a police officer, although the Ivory Coast international will not serve time in prison as it is a 'convertible' sentence
PSG full-back Serge Aurier has been given a two-month prison sentence for allegedly attacking a police officer.
The 23-year-old is accused of assaulting the officer after he was pulled over in May, and asked to take a breath test.
Aurier, who was alleged to have elbowed the officer in the chest, has claimed in an interview that he was "brutalised" by the police, and subsequent reports have claimed that he will appeal the court's decision.
?It was violent,? Aurier said on French television in June. ?The police officers got out of the car, insulted me, brutalised me, my lip was smashed
The PSG full-back was in court on Monday over an attack on a police officer, although the Ivory Coast international will not serve time in prison as it is a 'convertible' sentence
PSG full-back Serge Aurier has been given a two-month prison sentence for allegedly attacking a police officer.
The 23-year-old is accused of assaulting the officer after he was pulled over in May, and asked to take a breath test.
Aurier, who was alleged to have elbowed the officer in the chest, has claimed in an interview that he was "brutalised" by the police, and subsequent reports have claimed that he will appeal the court's decision.
?It was violent,? Aurier said on French television in June. ?The police officers got out of the car, insulted me, brutalised me, my lip was smashed
AURIER HANDED TWO-MONTH PRISON SENTENCE
AURIER HANDED TWO-MONTH PRISON SENTENCE
The PSG full-back was in court on Monday over an attack on a police officer, although the Ivory Coast international will not serve time in prison as it is a 'convertible' sentence
PSG full-back Serge Aurier has been given a two-month prison sentence for allegedly attacking a police officer.
The 23-year-old is accused of assaulting the officer after he was pulled over in May, and asked to take a breath test.
Aurier, who was alleged to have elbowed the officer in the chest, has claimed in an interview that he was "brutalised" by the police, and subsequent reports have claimed that he will appeal the court's decision.
?It was violent,? Aurier said on French television in June. ?The police officers got out of the car, insulted me, brutalised me, my lip was smashed
The PSG full-back was in court on Monday over an attack on a police officer, although the Ivory Coast international will not serve time in prison as it is a 'convertible' sentence
PSG full-back Serge Aurier has been given a two-month prison sentence for allegedly attacking a police officer.
The 23-year-old is accused of assaulting the officer after he was pulled over in May, and asked to take a breath test.
Aurier, who was alleged to have elbowed the officer in the chest, has claimed in an interview that he was "brutalised" by the police, and subsequent reports have claimed that he will appeal the court's decision.
?It was violent,? Aurier said on French television in June. ?The police officers got out of the car, insulted me, brutalised me, my lip was smashed
AURIER HANDED TWO-MONTH PRISON SENTENCE
AURIER HANDED TWO-MONTH PRISON SENTENCE
The PSG full-back was in court on Monday over an attack on a police officer, although the Ivory Coast international will not serve time in prison as it is a 'convertible' sentence
PSG full-back Serge Aurier has been given a two-month prison sentence for allegedly attacking a police officer.
The 23-year-old is accused of assaulting the officer after he was pulled over in May, and asked to take a breath test.
Aurier, who was alleged to have elbowed the officer in the chest, has claimed in an interview that he was "brutalised" by the police, and subsequent reports have claimed that he will appeal the court's decision.
?It was violent,? Aurier said on French television in June. ?The police officers got out of the car, insulted me, brutalised me, my lip was smashed
The PSG full-back was in court on Monday over an attack on a police officer, although the Ivory Coast international will not serve time in prison as it is a 'convertible' sentence
PSG full-back Serge Aurier has been given a two-month prison sentence for allegedly attacking a police officer.
The 23-year-old is accused of assaulting the officer after he was pulled over in May, and asked to take a breath test.
Aurier, who was alleged to have elbowed the officer in the chest, has claimed in an interview that he was "brutalised" by the police, and subsequent reports have claimed that he will appeal the court's decision.
?It was violent,? Aurier said on French television in June. ?The police officers got out of the car, insulted me, brutalised me, my lip was smashed
AURIER HANDED TWO-MONTH PRISON SENTENCE
AURIER HANDED TWO-MONTH PRISON SENTENCE
The PSG full-back was in court on Monday over an attack on a police officer, although the Ivory Coast international will not serve time in prison as it is a 'convertible' sentence
PSG full-back Serge Aurier has been given a two-month prison sentence for allegedly attacking a police officer.
The 23-year-old is accused of assaulting the officer after he was pulled over in May, and asked to take a breath test.
Aurier, who was alleged to have elbowed the officer in the chest, has claimed in an interview that he was "brutalised" by the police, and subsequent reports have claimed that he will appeal the court's decision.
?It was violent,? Aurier said on French television in June. ?The police officers got out of the car, insulted me, brutalised me, my lip was smashed
The PSG full-back was in court on Monday over an attack on a police officer, although the Ivory Coast international will not serve time in prison as it is a 'convertible' sentence
PSG full-back Serge Aurier has been given a two-month prison sentence for allegedly attacking a police officer.
The 23-year-old is accused of assaulting the officer after he was pulled over in May, and asked to take a breath test.
Aurier, who was alleged to have elbowed the officer in the chest, has claimed in an interview that he was "brutalised" by the police, and subsequent reports have claimed that he will appeal the court's decision.
?It was violent,? Aurier said on French television in June. ?The police officers got out of the car, insulted me, brutalised me, my lip was smashed
Sunday, 25 September 2016
Mesut Ozil Hails Impact of Arsenal New Boys Mustafi and Xhaka as Gunners Hammer Chelsea
Mesut Ozil Hails Impact of Arsenal New Boys Mustafi and Xhaka as Gunners Hammer Chelsea
Mesut Ozil says he has been impressed by how quickly Arsenal summer signings Shkodran Mustafi and Granit Xhaka have adapted to the Premier League.
Mustafi and Xhaka have been impressive since arriving from Valencia and Borussia Monchengladbach respectively, with the duo garnering further acclaim for their efforts in the 3-0 victory over Chelsea on Saturday.
Arsene Wenger's transfer business in the summer looks to be paying dividends and Ozil has explained that the influx of new talent has lifted Arsenal's spirits.
Laurent Koscielny and Shkodran Mustafi's game by numbers vs. Chelsea:
12 clearances
10 interceptions
4 tackles
2 blocks
1 clean sheet
They have been fully integrated from the first day. They are guys who just get on with everyone and bring positive energy to the team," Ozil told Arsenal's? official matchday programme.
I have known Shkodran from the German national team and we spoke a lot about this club before his transfer.
He had a few questions for me, about the team, the manager and the city. We spoke about things and I was pleased that he eventually decided to move here.?
Ozil started the season slowly after his exertions with Germany at Euro 2016 in the summer but was outstanding against Chelsea, scoring his side's third goal and delighting the crowd with his trademark range of passing and footwork.
Here comes Granit - Coquelin's hobbling off after picking up a knock blocking Kante's shot
Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) September 24, 2016
Speaking after the match, Ozil said the performance had proved Arsenal's doubters wrong by playing quick, adventurous attacking football to which the Chelsea defence crumbled.
"Many so-called experts had already written us off after the second matchday," Ozil told Goal. "But a Premier League season is long and we're currently improving from game to game.
"In the first half we played exactly the kind of football we want to play -- quick combinations so that our opponents didn't even get the chance to tackle."
All SPORTS NEWS
STRICTLY SPORTS NEWS
FOOTBALL
Swansea City could approach Ryan Giggs if 'dead man walking' Francesco Guidolin is removed as manager - chairman Huw Jenkins considered a move for the former Manchester United assistant earlier this summer but was blocked by the club's new American owners.
Manchester City face a FIFA enquiry after
being accused of 'trafficking' schoolboy
Benjamin Garre, a player they signed from
Argentina's Velez Sarsfield under the noses
of Manchester United and Barcelona when
he turned 16.
Arsene Wenger is plotting a 40m raid on Real Madrid to sign striker Karim Benzema next summer.
Yaya Toure is furious with agent Dimitri Seluk after his shocking rant against Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola.
Christian Pulisic is stalling on a new deal at Borussia Dortmund, sparking fresh speculation over a January move to Liverpool.
Jon Obi Mikel expects to leave Chelsea in January and is mulling over options in MLS.
Aston Villa are hopeful of signing Benfica striker Victor Lindelof, a previous target for Chelsea.
Arsenal are growing increasingly concerned over midfielder Aaron Ramsey's slow recovery from a hamstring injury.
QPR owner Tony Fernandes wants Steve McClaren to join the club in a senior role as he looks to engineer a recovery from their slow start to the season.
Emmanuel Adebayor has been accused of smoking and drinking by French club Lyon after they rejected the chance to sign the striker.
Tottenham are confident of beating off competition from Liverpool to sign Fulham wonderkid Ryan Sessegnon in January.
Everton, West Brom and Crystal Palace are among a host of Premier League clubs to have scouted Norwich City twins Jacob and Josh Murphy.
Yaya Toure will have his choice of clubs in January when the nightmare last few months of his Manchester City career are expected to come to an end.
Hatem Ben Arfa could be handed a Paris Saint-Germain escape by Southampton when the transfer window reopens in January. Ben Arfa is reportedly unhappy in the French capital weeks after joining the
club.
Aston Villa have fined Jack Grealish �50,000 for staying out until 8am at a party in Birmingham last weekend.
Arsenal striker Chuba Akpom says he would ' play in goal' if it meant him earning more first-team minutes at the Premier League club.
Lionel Messi will be out for three weeks after suffering a groin strain as he limped off in Barcelona's 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid .
EFL fourth-round draw:
West Ham v Chelsea
Manchester United v Manchester City
Arsenal v Reading
Liverpool v Tottenham
Bristol City v Hull City
Leeds v Norwich
Newcastle v Preston
Southampton v Sunderland
*CRICKET*
Seamer Toby Roland-Jones took 4-31 as Middlesex turned the screw on title rivals Yorkshire on day two at Lord's.
*FORMULA 1*
McLaren deny Apple investment talks, Arrivabene
reports denied, Carey wants to hold GPs in world's 'greatest cities'...
*OLYMPICS*
Rome is set to confirm that it is pulling out of the race to host the Olympics in 2024.
*TENNIS*
Andy Murray is backing proposals to change the format of the Davis Cup but is against having the final played at a neutral venue.
*BOXING*
Kell Brook believes Anthony Crolla will win a "barnstormer" with Jorge Linares to get British boxing back to winning ways.
FOOTBALL
Swansea City could approach Ryan Giggs if 'dead man walking' Francesco Guidolin is removed as manager - chairman Huw Jenkins considered a move for the former Manchester United assistant earlier this summer but was blocked by the club's new American owners.
Manchester City face a FIFA enquiry after
being accused of 'trafficking' schoolboy
Benjamin Garre, a player they signed from
Argentina's Velez Sarsfield under the noses
of Manchester United and Barcelona when
he turned 16.
Arsene Wenger is plotting a 40m raid on Real Madrid to sign striker Karim Benzema next summer.
Yaya Toure is furious with agent Dimitri Seluk after his shocking rant against Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola.
Christian Pulisic is stalling on a new deal at Borussia Dortmund, sparking fresh speculation over a January move to Liverpool.
Jon Obi Mikel expects to leave Chelsea in January and is mulling over options in MLS.
Aston Villa are hopeful of signing Benfica striker Victor Lindelof, a previous target for Chelsea.
Arsenal are growing increasingly concerned over midfielder Aaron Ramsey's slow recovery from a hamstring injury.
QPR owner Tony Fernandes wants Steve McClaren to join the club in a senior role as he looks to engineer a recovery from their slow start to the season.
Emmanuel Adebayor has been accused of smoking and drinking by French club Lyon after they rejected the chance to sign the striker.
Tottenham are confident of beating off competition from Liverpool to sign Fulham wonderkid Ryan Sessegnon in January.
Everton, West Brom and Crystal Palace are among a host of Premier League clubs to have scouted Norwich City twins Jacob and Josh Murphy.
Yaya Toure will have his choice of clubs in January when the nightmare last few months of his Manchester City career are expected to come to an end.
Hatem Ben Arfa could be handed a Paris Saint-Germain escape by Southampton when the transfer window reopens in January. Ben Arfa is reportedly unhappy in the French capital weeks after joining the
club.
Aston Villa have fined Jack Grealish �50,000 for staying out until 8am at a party in Birmingham last weekend.
Arsenal striker Chuba Akpom says he would ' play in goal' if it meant him earning more first-team minutes at the Premier League club.
Lionel Messi will be out for three weeks after suffering a groin strain as he limped off in Barcelona's 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid .
EFL fourth-round draw:
West Ham v Chelsea
Manchester United v Manchester City
Arsenal v Reading
Liverpool v Tottenham
Bristol City v Hull City
Leeds v Norwich
Newcastle v Preston
Southampton v Sunderland
*CRICKET*
Seamer Toby Roland-Jones took 4-31 as Middlesex turned the screw on title rivals Yorkshire on day two at Lord's.
*FORMULA 1*
McLaren deny Apple investment talks, Arrivabene
reports denied, Carey wants to hold GPs in world's 'greatest cities'...
*OLYMPICS*
Rome is set to confirm that it is pulling out of the race to host the Olympics in 2024.
*TENNIS*
Andy Murray is backing proposals to change the format of the Davis Cup but is against having the final played at a neutral venue.
*BOXING*
Kell Brook believes Anthony Crolla will win a "barnstormer" with Jorge Linares to get British boxing back to winning ways.
Neymar Performs Generous Fan Act at Sporting Gijon to Uphold Barca Tradition
Neymar Performs Generous Fan Act at Sporting Gijon to Uphold Barca Tradition
Brazilian forward Neymar maintained Barcelona's 'More Than A club' tradition when he performed a true act of generosity after his side's game on Saturday.
The Catalans�travelled to Sporting Gijon and led 2-0 at the break before Luis Enrique's side scored three goals in the final ten minutes to round off a resounding victory.
Neymar himself notched a brace alongside goals from Luis Suarez, Arda Turan and Rafinha to put Barcelona a point off of Real Madrid in top
Following the result, Neymar began to shake hands with his opponents before removing his shirt and running towards a section of the home crowd. He then handed his match shirt to a young disabled Sporting Gijon fan who was overjoyed by the Brazilian's act of kindness.
It was not the first act of kindness by the Brazilian forward, although some of his previous good deeds have beenpunished,�after he was fined �8,000 for signing a fan's shoe during a game.
Barcelona enjoyed a positive end to the week following dropped points on Wednesday night to Atletico Madrid in the Camp Nou.�In contrast�their title rivals Real Madrid, following a 100% start to the campaign, have now drawn two games in a row after coming from behind to draw at home to Villarreal before a late equaliser saw them again drop points at Las Palmas on Saturday night.
Neymar himself is coming off the back of a successful�summer which saw him win gold at the Olympics in his home country after they defeated the Germans on penalties in Rio De Janeiro.
Yaya Toure's Agent Dimitri Seluk Considering Legal Action Against Pep Guardiol
Yaya Toure's Agent Dimitri Seluk Considering Legal Action Against Pep Guardiola
Yaya Toure's agent Dimitri Seluk is considering taking legal action against Pep Guardiola after�
saying the Manchester City manager's treatment of the Ivorian midfielder is 'illegal.'�
Seluk launched another scathing attack against Guardiola in which he said the Catalan coach's decision to axe Toure from City's Champions League squad breaks employment law. Toure once again did not feature for City as they maintained their perfect start to the season with a 3-1 victory over Swansea City.
What Guardiola is doing is illegal," Seluk said.
"He thinks he can act like this because Yaya is in the last year of his contract and FIFA?s regulations say we can only appeal about this decision at the end of the season.�But the fact�
is that Yaya is being punished for things�he�hasn?t said.
As his agent and friend, it is my job to speak if I feel Yaya is not being treated fairly. But Yaya himself has acted professionally and has not said anything about Guardiola and his situation in Manchester.
I believe this breaks employment law, so we will see.?
FIFA regulations state that a player can cancel his contract if he is not selected for ten percent of games when he is free for selection and not injured or suspended.�
Seluk hasn't yet been given permission by City to talk to other clubs although the Premier League leaders are reported to be willing to let Toure leave in January for any club he wants.�
If City want Yaya to leave in January then they must tell me and we can talk.
Of course, the financial situation must be considered, but this is not about money and never has been. Yaya needs respect, not money. He could have left the club in the summer and could have earned as much as he is at City, but the club would not give us the authorisation to make the transfer.
City must talk to me.�At the moment, Yaya will stay in Manchester until the end of the season. If he isn?t playing, it is not an ideal situation for him or for City, but if that is what they want then his body will be rested and he will be ready for a new challenge next season.?
Pogba went back to Juventus
Turin based newspaper Tuttosport have reported that Pogba went back to Juventus?
training ground in Vinovo last Friday.
The first thing he did was clear out his locker, which he was unable to do as he went straight from his holiday in the USA to signing for
Manchester United and did not return to Turin.Famously, Patrice Evra posted a picture on
Instagram of Pogba?s locker .
Pogba gave each Juventus
squad member a Rolex Watch
Tuttosport also note that the Juventus squad and coaching staff were also pleased about Pogba?s flying visit. To thank them he brought everyone at the club
(teammates, coaching staff, doctors,
warehousemen, club officials) each an
expensive watch ? believed to be a Rolex.
The report adds that Pogba?s gift may also
have been an apology due to the nature of his
summer departure.
Either way, a classy move.
training ground in Vinovo last Friday.
The first thing he did was clear out his locker, which he was unable to do as he went straight from his holiday in the USA to signing for
Manchester United and did not return to Turin.Famously, Patrice Evra posted a picture on
Instagram of Pogba?s locker .
Pogba gave each Juventus
squad member a Rolex Watch
Tuttosport also note that the Juventus squad and coaching staff were also pleased about Pogba?s flying visit. To thank them he brought everyone at the club
(teammates, coaching staff, doctors,
warehousemen, club officials) each an
expensive watch ? believed to be a Rolex.
The report adds that Pogba?s gift may also
have been an apology due to the nature of his
summer departure.
Either way, a classy move.
Wednesday, 21 September 2016
Former Manchester United manager Ron Atkinson on Ander Herrera...
Former Manchester United manager Ron Atkinson on Ander Herrera..."“I think he’s the one who sometimes - not only this year, last year or the year before - he carries the can a little bit. He’d be one of my first choices.
He has] great energy, [a] great attitude, [he] competes. He came on in the [Manchester] City derby when they were completely outclassed in the first half and was a big factor in the way the game changed. He won a lot of balls; he got around people’s feet, busied people. It’s ever so easy picking someone else’s team, but he’d be one of my starting players - I’d play him quite a lot.”
Parker: Message to Manchester for appointing Jose Mourinho
Parker: "After 16 years as a manager, he still hasn’t learnt to lose with dignity – shifting the blame for everything onto referees and his players. I’ve been concerned from the moment Manchester United took him on and his scathing remarks about Luke Shaw only make me more concerned. Mourinho thinks he can go around and say what he wants – because of his name and what he’s achieved – and the players will accept it.
Newsflash: they won’t. If it was Sir Alex Ferguson, the players would bite their tongues, but even he never went to the press and pulled out one player. You would have thought Mourinho had learnt his lesson from Chelsea. There’s a lot of worried supporters right now. They know the history of the man. Sure, there are some who believe Mourinho will win the Premier League in his first season, but there are many more who fear déjà vu and Chelsea round two. Why did they take on someone who upset so many people at Stamford Bridge?"
Manchester United players rating after playing Northampton FC
Sergio Romero 4 ? Sorry but I don?t like him being in goal. He just fills me with fear.
Surprised that wasn?t a penalty in the first
half when he came rushing out. Timothy Fosu-Mensah 5 ? So unlucky not to score but defensively switched off at times,
especially for Northampton?s equaliser.
Chris Smalling 6 ? Powerful in the air against Revell who was a real handful and
that really limited Northampton but played
his part in that woeful defending which led
to their equaliser. However, overall he was
solid.
Daley Blind 5.5 ? Looked so comfortable until he gave away the penalty after some
calamitous defending from United. Marcos Rojo 4.5 ? Hoskins was having the best of him for the whole first half. Some
decent crosses but didn?t look up before
hitting them. Morgan Schneiderlin 5.5 ? Played a bit further forward than normal which he
seemed to enjoy but had some lapse passes.
Played a key role in our second goal but
overall didn?t do much. Michael Carrick 8 ? It is still hard to believe it?s not Scholes.
Beautiful finish for Man United?s first. Surely in the starting XI to face
Leicester City now because we don?t have a
midfielder who can control a game better
than him.
Ander Herrera 7.5 ? He was cracking tonight. Always made himself available for
the pass. Came alive in the second half;
unlucky not to score with one belting effort
but buried another to put United back in
front. Thoroughly enjoy watching him play. Memphis Depay 5 ? Pretty quiet in the first half because of Northampton?s deep line.
Was never able to break them down but at
least looked confident. Ashley Young 6 ? Some good crosses from Young but Northampton defended really
deep so was hard to break down. Wayne Rooney 4.5 ? Missed an open goal from six yards out early on and looked
completely lost against League One
opposition. What more can you say? Substitutes Zlatan Ibrahimovic 6 ? Made a difference in giving us a bit more presence but was
pretty much a bystander. Marcus Rashford 8 ? Always adds something doesn?t he? Set up our second goal and got
the third because he chased it down.
Wonderful player, wonderful cameo. Marouane Fellaini 5 ? Fellaini is as Fellaini does. Added size helped scare Northampton
off the long balls.
Surprised that wasn?t a penalty in the first
half when he came rushing out. Timothy Fosu-Mensah 5 ? So unlucky not to score but defensively switched off at times,
especially for Northampton?s equaliser.
Chris Smalling 6 ? Powerful in the air against Revell who was a real handful and
that really limited Northampton but played
his part in that woeful defending which led
to their equaliser. However, overall he was
solid.
Daley Blind 5.5 ? Looked so comfortable until he gave away the penalty after some
calamitous defending from United. Marcos Rojo 4.5 ? Hoskins was having the best of him for the whole first half. Some
decent crosses but didn?t look up before
hitting them. Morgan Schneiderlin 5.5 ? Played a bit further forward than normal which he
seemed to enjoy but had some lapse passes.
Played a key role in our second goal but
overall didn?t do much. Michael Carrick 8 ? It is still hard to believe it?s not Scholes.
Beautiful finish for Man United?s first. Surely in the starting XI to face
Leicester City now because we don?t have a
midfielder who can control a game better
than him.
Ander Herrera 7.5 ? He was cracking tonight. Always made himself available for
the pass. Came alive in the second half;
unlucky not to score with one belting effort
but buried another to put United back in
front. Thoroughly enjoy watching him play. Memphis Depay 5 ? Pretty quiet in the first half because of Northampton?s deep line.
Was never able to break them down but at
least looked confident. Ashley Young 6 ? Some good crosses from Young but Northampton defended really
deep so was hard to break down. Wayne Rooney 4.5 ? Missed an open goal from six yards out early on and looked
completely lost against League One
opposition. What more can you say? Substitutes Zlatan Ibrahimovic 6 ? Made a difference in giving us a bit more presence but was
pretty much a bystander. Marcus Rashford 8 ? Always adds something doesn?t he? Set up our second goal and got
the third because he chased it down.
Wonderful player, wonderful cameo. Marouane Fellaini 5 ? Fellaini is as Fellaini does. Added size helped scare Northampton
off the long balls.
EVA CARNEIRO IS BEHIND JOSE MOURINHO'S WOES - KWAKU BONSAM
EVA CARNEIRO IS BEHIND JOSE MOURINHO'S WOES - KWAKU BONSAM
Popular Ghanaian Fetish Priest Nana Kwaku Bonsam has alleged that Chelsea?s former doctor Eva Carneiro is behind the troubles of Manchester United Manager, Jose Mourinho.
According to him, the former Team Doctor possesses a spirit that is causing all the troubles of the former Chelsea Manager.
Mourinho has to apologize again to Eva and show remorse since he (Mourinho) didn?t show repentance in his earlier apologies to Eva Carneiro. Eva Carneiro possesses a higher spirit which is causing the entire calamities in Jose?s career and has been a curse therefore, if he Mourniho doesn?t take a second look at this it may get to a time he will get fed up and end his career abruptly,? told Kasapa FM.
In August 9, 2015, footage released in Chelsea and Swansea City game showed a furious Mourinho walking across the opposition technical area to confront Carneiro and then Fearn in the aftermath of the Hazard incident.
Source: Kasapa Fm
Popular Ghanaian Fetish Priest Nana Kwaku Bonsam has alleged that Chelsea?s former doctor Eva Carneiro is behind the troubles of Manchester United Manager, Jose Mourinho.
According to him, the former Team Doctor possesses a spirit that is causing all the troubles of the former Chelsea Manager.
Mourinho has to apologize again to Eva and show remorse since he (Mourinho) didn?t show repentance in his earlier apologies to Eva Carneiro. Eva Carneiro possesses a higher spirit which is causing the entire calamities in Jose?s career and has been a curse therefore, if he Mourniho doesn?t take a second look at this it may get to a time he will get fed up and end his career abruptly,? told Kasapa FM.
In August 9, 2015, footage released in Chelsea and Swansea City game showed a furious Mourinho walking across the opposition technical area to confront Carneiro and then Fearn in the aftermath of the Hazard incident.
Source: Kasapa Fm
EFL Cup R4: MAN UTD DRAWN AT HOME TO MAN CITY IN EFL CUP 4TH RD
EFL Cup
MAN UTD DRAWN AT HOME TO MAN CITY IN EFL CUP 4TH RD
EFL CUP R4 DRAW
with games to be played w/c October 24.
WEST HAM v CHELSEA
MAN UTD v MAN CITY
ARSENAL v READING
LIVERPOOL v TOTTENHAM
BRISTOL CITY v HULL
LEEDS v NORWICH
NEWCASTLE v PRESTON
SOUTHAMPTON v SUNDERLAND
MAN UTD DRAWN AT HOME TO MAN CITY IN EFL CUP 4TH RD
EFL CUP R4 DRAW
with games to be played w/c October 24.
WEST HAM v CHELSEA
MAN UTD v MAN CITY
ARSENAL v READING
LIVERPOOL v TOTTENHAM
BRISTOL CITY v HULL
LEEDS v NORWICH
NEWCASTLE v PRESTON
SOUTHAMPTON v SUNDERLAND
Milan building momentum after 2-0 win over Lazio
Milan building momentum after 2-0 win over Lazio
AC Milan beat visitors Lazio 2-0 to claim consecutive Serie A wins for the first time since February thanks to Carlos Bacca's fifth goal of the season and a M'Baye Niang penalty on Tuesday.
Bacca scored before halftime on the break, while Niang converted from the spot late on after handball by Stefan Radu.
New coach Vincenzo Montella's Milan side are gaining momentum having lost twice this season and move up to third on nine points after seeing off Lazio, who are seventh on seven.
"The solid spirit we've had for the last two matches is what we need going forward," said Milan captain Riccardo Montolivo.
AC Milan beat visitors Lazio 2-0 to claim consecutive Serie A wins for the first time since February thanks to Carlos Bacca's fifth goal of the season and a M'Baye Niang penalty on Tuesday.
Bacca scored before halftime on the break, while Niang converted from the spot late on after handball by Stefan Radu.
New coach Vincenzo Montella's Milan side are gaining momentum having lost twice this season and move up to third on nine points after seeing off Lazio, who are seventh on seven.
"The solid spirit we've had for the last two matches is what we need going forward," said Milan captain Riccardo Montolivo.
What Mourinho must do to win Premier League, Ghanaian fetish priest, Bonsam
What Mourinho must do to win Premier League, Ghanaian fetish priest, Bonsam
By Esther Ogenyi on September 21, 2016
Popular Ghanaian voodoo priest, Nana Kwaku Bonsam, has revealed that Manchester United coach, Jose Mourinho, would have to apologise to Eva Carneiro once again if he wants his team to have a shot at the English premiership League.
It would be recalled that Mourinho and Eva Carneiro, last year, had engaged in heated disagreement during their time together at Chelsea after Carnerio rushed onto the pitched to treat Eden Hazard.
Mourinho so far has lost at least three games since he took over as Manchester United couch even after buying Juventus midfielder, Paul Pogba for a huge sum of money.
The fetish priest while speaking to Kasapa FM said; ?Mourinho has to apologise again to Eva and show remorse since he didn?t show repentance in his earlier apologies to Eva Carneiro,? he said.
Eva Carneiro possesses a higher spirit which is causing the entire calamities in Jose?s career and has been a curse.
Therefore, if he (Mourinho) doesn?t take a second look at this, it may get to a time he will get fed up and end his career abruptly.?
United will play Northampton on Wednesday at Sixfields Stadium
By Esther Ogenyi on September 21, 2016
Popular Ghanaian voodoo priest, Nana Kwaku Bonsam, has revealed that Manchester United coach, Jose Mourinho, would have to apologise to Eva Carneiro once again if he wants his team to have a shot at the English premiership League.
It would be recalled that Mourinho and Eva Carneiro, last year, had engaged in heated disagreement during their time together at Chelsea after Carnerio rushed onto the pitched to treat Eden Hazard.
Mourinho so far has lost at least three games since he took over as Manchester United couch even after buying Juventus midfielder, Paul Pogba for a huge sum of money.
The fetish priest while speaking to Kasapa FM said; ?Mourinho has to apologise again to Eva and show remorse since he didn?t show repentance in his earlier apologies to Eva Carneiro,? he said.
Eva Carneiro possesses a higher spirit which is causing the entire calamities in Jose?s career and has been a curse.
Therefore, if he (Mourinho) doesn?t take a second look at this, it may get to a time he will get fed up and end his career abruptly.?
United will play Northampton on Wednesday at Sixfields Stadium
GERMAN GOAL KEEPER ARRESTED AFTER CONCEEDING 43 GOALS
GERMAN GOAL KEEPER ARRESTED AFTER CONCEEDING 43 GOALS
A German Goalkeeper, Marco Kwiotek has been arrested by the police for conceding 43 goals in one match which saw his team SV Vonderort smashed by their local rivals PSV Oberhausen 43-0.
The goalkeeper was picked during a training session after his team lost the game.
The score was 35-0 at halftime, and at one point Vonderort, a German team consisting of refugees from Syria, Iraq and Guinea were only able to field eight players.
PSV Oberhausen felt so bad about the squared that they took off three of their own players just to even up the numbers.
Five days after the game, the police arrested Kwiotek at Vonderort training and he has not been seen since then.
The police gave no reason for his arrest but there are speculations that the goalkeeper could have been arrested for match-fixing.
A German Goalkeeper, Marco Kwiotek has been arrested by the police for conceding 43 goals in one match which saw his team SV Vonderort smashed by their local rivals PSV Oberhausen 43-0.
The goalkeeper was picked during a training session after his team lost the game.
The score was 35-0 at halftime, and at one point Vonderort, a German team consisting of refugees from Syria, Iraq and Guinea were only able to field eight players.
PSV Oberhausen felt so bad about the squared that they took off three of their own players just to even up the numbers.
Five days after the game, the police arrested Kwiotek at Vonderort training and he has not been seen since then.
The police gave no reason for his arrest but there are speculations that the goalkeeper could have been arrested for match-fixing.
Toure's Agent Hits Back to Guardiola
Toure's Agent Hits Back
Yaya Toure's agent, Dimitri Seluk has hit back at Pep Guardiola after the Catalan coach demanded his ??apology.
"Guardiola wins a few games and thinks he is king," Seluk said??. "I live in Europe so I can say whatever I like and Guardiola can't stop me. What do I need to apologise for? Ok, I will apologise to Guardiola if he will apologise to [Manuel] Pellegrini for what he did to him."
Seluk had earlier made ??serious comments against Pep and even claimed that the coach ??humiliated Toure. Later, Pep made ??it clear that Toure will not play until he ??apologises to his teammates and club.
Yaya Toure's agent, Dimitri Seluk has hit back at Pep Guardiola after the Catalan coach demanded his ??apology.
"Guardiola wins a few games and thinks he is king," Seluk said??. "I live in Europe so I can say whatever I like and Guardiola can't stop me. What do I need to apologise for? Ok, I will apologise to Guardiola if he will apologise to [Manuel] Pellegrini for what he did to him."
Seluk had earlier made ??serious comments against Pep and even claimed that the coach ??humiliated Toure. Later, Pep made ??it clear that Toure will not play until he ??apologises to his teammates and club.
FIFA PRESIDENT INFANTINO CONGRATULATES WA ALL STARS FOR WINNING FIRST LEAGUE TITLE...
FIFA PRESIDENT INFANTINO CONGRATULATES WA ALL STARS FOR WINNING FIRST LEAGUE TITLE...
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has congratulated Wa All Stars for winning the Ghana Premier League.
The newly appointed FIFA boss has officially sent his message of excellence to the Wa based side for clinching the title for the fisrt time in their history.
"Please pass on my own personal congratulations, along with those of the whole football family, Wa All Stars on their performance.
The former UEFA general secretary was quick to add that the Coach Adepa led side can attribute their success to attitude and their constitency on the pitch.
He added: "The dynamism and commitment of the Wa All Stars team have enabled them to win this title"
"This is a true team victory, and all of you deserve to share in the accolades: the players and coach of course".
Tuesday, 20 September 2016
Mourinho to axe Rooney amid dressing room unrest at Man Utd
Mourinho to axe Rooney amid dressing room unrest at Man Utd
Reports claim that Wayne Rooney is set to be dropped from the Manchester United starting XI after a horrific run of form.The England star is likely to be one of the victims of a three-match losing streak, while the manager is having a hard time winning over the club's players with his blunt style.
Manager Jose Mourinho is having a hard time winning over the United dressing room, who were shocked after a vicious berating following the shock 3-1 defeat to Watford at the weekend.
And, under pressure to revert a run of three consecutive losses, Mourinho is ready to sacrifice captain Rooney in a revamped team to take on champions Leicester City this Saturday.
Reports claim that Wayne Rooney is set to be dropped from the Manchester United starting XI after a horrific run of form.The England star is likely to be one of the victims of a three-match losing streak, while the manager is having a hard time winning over the club's players with his blunt style.
Manager Jose Mourinho is having a hard time winning over the United dressing room, who were shocked after a vicious berating following the shock 3-1 defeat to Watford at the weekend.
And, under pressure to revert a run of three consecutive losses, Mourinho is ready to sacrifice captain Rooney in a revamped team to take on champions Leicester City this Saturday.
Shocking Games on Premier League History
let me take you back in memory.
In 1990 Liverpool won their first 8 games but failed to win the league.
In 1985 Manchester United won their first 10 games but still finished 4th.
In the 1992-93 season, Manchester United were in position 12 after 5 games and position 21 after 3 games with 1 draw and 2 defeats and 8 points from the leaders, but went on to win the league...
In the 1998-1999 season, Manchester United was in position 10 in the league after 5 games but still went on to win the league.
In the 2001-2002 season, Manchester United were in position 8 in the league after 5 games but still went on to win the league.
In the 2008-9 season Manchester United was in position 8 in the league after 5 games but still went on to win the league.
In the 2009-2010 season Manchester United was on position 10 after 5 games but still went on to win the league.
In 1996, Newcastle led Manchester United by 12 points in December....But Manchester United still won the league. If you are a true Manchester United fan, please dont join the gravy train of the Manchester United haters bashing the team at this moment. You know the club history. The haters will wait for any negative moment to bash the club. Please dont join them. Let us stand by our team at this moment . Admittedly we are not playing the best football at the moment and players like Pogba have not hit form, but we are still just one point behind our traditional rivals who are playing their best football already and 6 behind leaders Man City. We are in the mix. Imagine when we also hit form and playing our best football?Jose' is still shuffling the players around looking for the best combinations. Dont feel discouraged by haters who feel good when Man Utd falter. It is unbelievable that a team just one point ahead can jump onto a mountain and say your team is shit...A true Manchester United fan will chill. When we talk,tichataura nemutsindo and they will hate us even more. We have the players. It will come right. We are in the mix at our worst. We will play Champions league football next season !
#Yes_we_will_talk
#Red_Devils_for_Life
#We_Are_United
Still Bleeds RED #GGMU
COURTOIS: I WANT TO RETURN TO SPAIN,
COURTOIS: I WANT TO RETURN TO SPAIN,
The Chelsea goalkeeper has revealed he cried when his time at Atletico Madrid came to end in 2014 and says that he feels "half Spanish" as he enjoys the lifestyle so much
Thibaut Courtois has admitted he wants to return to La Liga and may not sign a new contract at Chelsea to engineer a move back to Spain.
Courtois joined Chelsea from Genk in 2011 and was immediately shipped out on loan to Atletico Madrid for the next three seasons.
CRISTIANO RONALDO 'DATING' FORMER MISS SPAIN MODEL
CRISTIANO RONALDO 'DATING' FORMER MISS SPAIN MODEL
Reports in Spain claim the Real Madrid and Portugal superstar has found himself a new partner after initiating contact with her through Instagram
Real Madrid and Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly started dating former Miss Spain model Desire Cordero.
Spanish gossip magazine Corazon CZN claims the two have been together for over a month and Cordero has since moved to Madrid to strengthen their relationship.
Ronaldo, who has previously dated models Gemma Atkinson and Irina Shayk, is understood to have initiated contact with Spanish beauty Cordero through Instagram.
Cordero was crowned Miss Spain in 2014 and also represented Spain in Miss Universe, where she finished 10th.
Reports in Spain claim the Real Madrid and Portugal superstar has found himself a new partner after initiating contact with her through Instagram
Real Madrid and Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly started dating former Miss Spain model Desire Cordero.
Spanish gossip magazine Corazon CZN claims the two have been together for over a month and Cordero has since moved to Madrid to strengthen their relationship.
Ronaldo, who has previously dated models Gemma Atkinson and Irina Shayk, is understood to have initiated contact with Spanish beauty Cordero through Instagram.
Cordero was crowned Miss Spain in 2014 and also represented Spain in Miss Universe, where she finished 10th.
GUARDIOLA BLASTS TOURE AGENT: APOLOGISE OR HE WON'T PLAY FOR MAN CITY AGAIN,
GUARDIOLA BLASTS TOURE AGENT: APOLOGISE OR HE WON'T PLAY FOR MAN CITY AGAIN,
Comments from midfielder's representative mean the Ivorian will continue to play no part until Seluk says sorry
Pep Guardiola says Yaya Toure will not feature for Manchester City until he receives an apology for Dmitri Seluk's recent outbursts in the media.
Guardiola left Toure out of his Champions League squad this season and Goal understands City were keen to move the Ivorian on if they could find a willing buyer in the summer transfer window.
Seluk, Toure's agent, told the press a day after his exclusion from that squad that the decision "humiliated" his client, and that "if City don?t win the Champions League then I hope that Pep has got the balls to say that he was wrong to humiliate a great player like Yaya."
Comments from midfielder's representative mean the Ivorian will continue to play no part until Seluk says sorry
Pep Guardiola says Yaya Toure will not feature for Manchester City until he receives an apology for Dmitri Seluk's recent outbursts in the media.
Guardiola left Toure out of his Champions League squad this season and Goal understands City were keen to move the Ivorian on if they could find a willing buyer in the summer transfer window.
Seluk, Toure's agent, told the press a day after his exclusion from that squad that the decision "humiliated" his client, and that "if City don?t win the Champions League then I hope that Pep has got the balls to say that he was wrong to humiliate a great player like Yaya."
Monday, 19 September 2016
Klopp is emotional but Pep is more like a genius - Gundogan
Klopp is emotional but Pep is more like a genius - Gundogan
Ilkay Gundogan has suggested Pep Guardiola is a superior manager to Jurgen Klopp, claiming the former Barcelona boss is "probably the best in the world".
The midfielder joined City in June and is now witnessing first-hand the talent of Guardiola, who frequently thwarted Klopp and Dortmund's Bundesliga ambitions during his time in charge of Bayern Munich.
The German said, "It wouldn't be fair to say Jurgen is more emotional but when you see him on the sidelines living every minute, it's not hard to understand why Dortmund were so successful under him. Pep is equally passionate but in a different way. He is more like a genius who reads the game and covers every situation imaginable."
Ilkay Gundogan has suggested Pep Guardiola is a superior manager to Jurgen Klopp, claiming the former Barcelona boss is "probably the best in the world".
The midfielder joined City in June and is now witnessing first-hand the talent of Guardiola, who frequently thwarted Klopp and Dortmund's Bundesliga ambitions during his time in charge of Bayern Munich.
The German said, "It wouldn't be fair to say Jurgen is more emotional but when you see him on the sidelines living every minute, it's not hard to understand why Dortmund were so successful under him. Pep is equally passionate but in a different way. He is more like a genius who reads the game and covers every situation imaginable."
Tuchel supports Bundesliga title play-offs
Tuchel supports Bundesliga title play-offs
Borussia Dortmund coach Thomas Tuchel would support the introduction of a play-off system to determine the winner of the Bundesliga title.
The Bavarian giants have won their opening three matches of the current campaign with an aggregate score of 11-1, with former German Football League (DFL) president and Bayer Leverkusen chief executive Wolfgang Holzhauser telling on Monday that championship play-offs were "more relevant than ever".
Asked for his opinion on the idea, Tuchel said: "Why not? It would give the runners-up, third and fourth the chance to be champion.
I do not think play-offs are far-fetched. I am basically very open to rule changes."
Borussia Dortmund coach Thomas Tuchel would support the introduction of a play-off system to determine the winner of the Bundesliga title.
The Bavarian giants have won their opening three matches of the current campaign with an aggregate score of 11-1, with former German Football League (DFL) president and Bayer Leverkusen chief executive Wolfgang Holzhauser telling on Monday that championship play-offs were "more relevant than ever".
Asked for his opinion on the idea, Tuchel said: "Why not? It would give the runners-up, third and fourth the chance to be champion.
I do not think play-offs are far-fetched. I am basically very open to rule changes."
Nemanja Vidic: What I hated about my time at Manchester United
Nemanja Vidic: What I hated about my time at Manchester United
"I struggled with the weather in the beginning," he told FourFourTwo magazine.
"Moscow is cold in winter but you don’t have rain – you have sunshine.
"I was okay with the food in England: it was good at the training ground and I had a wife at home who knew how to cook, especially Serbian dishes.
"She makes an excellent punjene paprike – peppers stuffed with meat, onion and spices. At Carrington, they asked me if I’d like Serbian food. They were advanced like that.
"Our three boys – they’re now aged nine, seven and four – were born in Manchester and I had the best time of my career there and we still have a house there.
"The only thing I had a problem with was the weather. I really enjoyed Manchester, the social life and its people."
The Ghana Football Association has confirmed the league table at the end of the 2015/16 Ghana Premier League season.
The Ghana Football Association has confirmed the league table at the end of the 2015/16 Ghana Premier League season.
Medeama are now placed fourth on the table despite tied on points with Asante Kotoko.
The Mauve and Yellows have a better head-to-head against the Porcupine Warriors.
Wa All Stars amassed 31 points to be crowned champions and the three relegated clubs are New Edubiase United, Techiman City and Sekondi Hasaacas.
Below is the final 2015/16 Ghana Premier League table:
1.Wa All Stars 51 points
2. Aduana Stars 49 points
3. Hearts of Oak 48 points
4. Medeama 46 points
5. Asante Kotoko - 46 points
6. WAFA - 42 points
7. Bechem United - 42 points
8. Dreams FC - 40 points
9. Ebusua Dwarfs - 40 points
10. Berekum Chelsea. -,40 points
11. Ashantigold - 40 points
12. Inter Allies - 38 points
13. Liberty Professionals - 38 points
14. Techiman City - 37 points
15. Hasaacas - 36 points
16. New Edubiase - 19 points
Medeama are now placed fourth on the table despite tied on points with Asante Kotoko.
The Mauve and Yellows have a better head-to-head against the Porcupine Warriors.
Wa All Stars amassed 31 points to be crowned champions and the three relegated clubs are New Edubiase United, Techiman City and Sekondi Hasaacas.
Below is the final 2015/16 Ghana Premier League table:
1.Wa All Stars 51 points
2. Aduana Stars 49 points
3. Hearts of Oak 48 points
4. Medeama 46 points
5. Asante Kotoko - 46 points
6. WAFA - 42 points
7. Bechem United - 42 points
8. Dreams FC - 40 points
9. Ebusua Dwarfs - 40 points
10. Berekum Chelsea. -,40 points
11. Ashantigold - 40 points
12. Inter Allies - 38 points
13. Liberty Professionals - 38 points
14. Techiman City - 37 points
15. Hasaacas - 36 points
16. New Edubiase - 19 points
'BALOTELLI WILL ABSOLUTELY RETURN TO THE PREMIER LEAGUE'
'BALOTELLI WILL ABSOLUTELY RETURN TO THE PREMIER LEAGUE'
The Italian striker roundly flopped at Liverpool and is now at Nice, but his agent believes he could one day return to England's top-flight as he is a "world-class talent"
Mario Balotelli will ?absolutely? return to the Premier League, according to his agent Mino Raiola.
Sunday, 18 September 2016
Mourinho blames referee and bad luck for Manchester United loss
Mourinho blames referee and bad luck for Manchester United loss
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho felt the referee and bad luck played a part in his team's defeat to Watford, but also accepted their performance could have been better.
Goals from Etienne Capoue and Marcus Rashford had the match level at 1-1 going into the final seven minutes, when a strike from substitute Juan Zuniga and a penalty from captain Troy Deeney earned the home side a 3-1 victory at Vicarage Road.
United now sit six points behind early Premier League leaders Manchester City, and Mourinho has lost three consecutive competitive games in a single season for the first time since he was in charge of Porto in 2001-02.
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho blamed "individual and collective mistakes"
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho blamed "individual and collective mistakes" and was critical of referee Michael Oliver after his side suffered a third successive defeat.
United's 3-1 loss at Watford on Sunday followed defeat against Manchester City in the Premier League and Feyenoord in the Europa League.
With the game goalless, Anthony Martial lost possession leading to Etienne Capoue scoring the opening goal and Mourinho felt a foul should have been given for Miguel Britos' challenge. Although Marcus Rashford eventually equalised, Watford went on to win through a goal from substitute Camilo Zuniga and then a Troy Deeney penalty.
Mourinho told BT Sport: "There's no debate, no controversy. It's an obvious situation, like last week against Manchester City, but it's something I cannot control or be critical with. In the first half, for the first 25 or 30 minutes, we didn't play well. That's something we can control and improve, then the referee and linesman's mistake is not under my control. I can do nothing to improve it.
"The second half was much better, we got the draw [equalising at 1-1] then, after that, we were the team [who looked likelier to win]. [Heurelho] Gomes made a phenomenal save [from a Zlatan Ibrahimovic header]. Luck is not something we can control. What we can control is individual and collective mistakes. The second goal is an individual mistake. We know we have to press the wing backs outside the box. Then, another individual mistake [for the third goal]."
When asked if he was concerned, Mourinho replied: "I'm always concerned when we don't get results we want. That's an obvious situation."
Manchester United were not happy with the referee's performance against Watford.
Mourinho continued on his theme of the players' errors in his post-match news conference, and said it is his job to ensure they are cut out in future.
"I feel that some individuals probably feel the pressure and responsibility too much," he said. "But from a collective point of view, I only have good things to say about them. At 1-1 everyone thinks we are going to win the game. We were showing complete control, intensity, creation.
"But their second goal is a mistake that goes against our plan and our training, because our intention was for their wing-backs to be pressed and not let them progress. And what happened was the guy gets the ball 20-25 metres away from our box and instead of being pressed, we give him the space to progress. [Nordin] Amrabat receives the ball and our left-back [Shaw] is 25 metres from him instead of five.
"But even at 25 you have to jump and go and press, but no, we wait. This is a tactical but also a mental attitude. It's something that doesn't become perfect in a couple of weeks. So we have to improve, no doubt, individually and collectively. And that's my job.
"We started the season very well with [winning] the Community Shield and three victories in a row in the Premier League, the best start that a new manager has had at Manchester United I think. But was I thinking that my team was ready, perfect, unbeatable? Not at all.
"I was completely aware that we were not perfect, with lots of players who are not end products and can make their own mistakes."
BT Sport Football (@btsportfootball) September 18, 2016
Asked if he felt referee Oliver should have penalised Miguel Britos' tackle on Martial in the build-up to Watford's opening goal was a foul, Mourinho said: "When you come with that question it's because you know. You don't ask me about that if you think that nothing happened. The reason you asked the question is my answer.
"The referee's crucial mistakes are not in my control, there is nothing I can do about that. That is not under my control. But against Man City you know what happened in minute 55 [when Mourinho felt United should have had a penalty for a challenge by Manchester City goalkeeper Claudio Bravo on Rooney], today you know that happened for the first goal, against Feyenoord there was
United's 3-1 loss at Watford on Sunday followed defeat against Manchester City in the Premier League and Feyenoord in the Europa League.
With the game goalless, Anthony Martial lost possession leading to Etienne Capoue scoring the opening goal and Mourinho felt a foul should have been given for Miguel Britos' challenge. Although Marcus Rashford eventually equalised, Watford went on to win through a goal from substitute Camilo Zuniga and then a Troy Deeney penalty.
Mourinho told BT Sport: "There's no debate, no controversy. It's an obvious situation, like last week against Manchester City, but it's something I cannot control or be critical with. In the first half, for the first 25 or 30 minutes, we didn't play well. That's something we can control and improve, then the referee and linesman's mistake is not under my control. I can do nothing to improve it.
"The second half was much better, we got the draw [equalising at 1-1] then, after that, we were the team [who looked likelier to win]. [Heurelho] Gomes made a phenomenal save [from a Zlatan Ibrahimovic header]. Luck is not something we can control. What we can control is individual and collective mistakes. The second goal is an individual mistake. We know we have to press the wing backs outside the box. Then, another individual mistake [for the third goal]."
When asked if he was concerned, Mourinho replied: "I'm always concerned when we don't get results we want. That's an obvious situation."
Manchester United were not happy with the referee's performance against Watford.
Mourinho continued on his theme of the players' errors in his post-match news conference, and said it is his job to ensure they are cut out in future.
"I feel that some individuals probably feel the pressure and responsibility too much," he said. "But from a collective point of view, I only have good things to say about them. At 1-1 everyone thinks we are going to win the game. We were showing complete control, intensity, creation.
"But their second goal is a mistake that goes against our plan and our training, because our intention was for their wing-backs to be pressed and not let them progress. And what happened was the guy gets the ball 20-25 metres away from our box and instead of being pressed, we give him the space to progress. [Nordin] Amrabat receives the ball and our left-back [Shaw] is 25 metres from him instead of five.
"But even at 25 you have to jump and go and press, but no, we wait. This is a tactical but also a mental attitude. It's something that doesn't become perfect in a couple of weeks. So we have to improve, no doubt, individually and collectively. And that's my job.
"We started the season very well with [winning] the Community Shield and three victories in a row in the Premier League, the best start that a new manager has had at Manchester United I think. But was I thinking that my team was ready, perfect, unbeatable? Not at all.
"I was completely aware that we were not perfect, with lots of players who are not end products and can make their own mistakes."
BT Sport Football (@btsportfootball) September 18, 2016
Asked if he felt referee Oliver should have penalised Miguel Britos' tackle on Martial in the build-up to Watford's opening goal was a foul, Mourinho said: "When you come with that question it's because you know. You don't ask me about that if you think that nothing happened. The reason you asked the question is my answer.
"The referee's crucial mistakes are not in my control, there is nothing I can do about that. That is not under my control. But against Man City you know what happened in minute 55 [when Mourinho felt United should have had a penalty for a challenge by Manchester City goalkeeper Claudio Bravo on Rooney], today you know that happened for the first goal, against Feyenoord there was
Scholes: Paul Pogba has to play in a midfield three for Man Utd
Scholes: Paul Pogba has to play in a midfield three for Man Utd
One of Manchester United?s most successful�ever central midfielders, Paul Scholes, has advised his former side on how to get the best out of�their most expensive ever signing, Paul Pogba.
The 41 year old believes that the French international hasn?t been used to his full potential whilst being deployed alongside Marouane Fallaini as one of a deep lying two-man central midfield ? and feels that the former Juventus midfielder needs to play in a less rigid midfield three.
Speaking on BT Sport after Manchester United?s 3-1 loss away to Watford, Scholes said: ?He played for three years at Juventus, in a three. He was sensational. He played in a two for France a little bit in the summer ? he wasn?t great, and played in a two this season ? he?s not been great.?
Six stats proving Paul Pogba is a complete footballer
6
SEE GALLERY
The imposing centre midfielder has been lacking influence on the field so far in his performances for the�Manchester club, despite consistently stellar performances for the Serie A champions before his long awaited return to Old Trafford.
Now we want to see Juventus Paul Pogba. He played in a brilliant team at Juventus with great experience around him not just in defence but in midfield as well. And to get the best out of him, I think he has to be in a three.
One of Manchester United?s most successful�ever central midfielders, Paul Scholes, has advised his former side on how to get the best out of�their most expensive ever signing, Paul Pogba.
The 41 year old believes that the French international hasn?t been used to his full potential whilst being deployed alongside Marouane Fallaini as one of a deep lying two-man central midfield ? and feels that the former Juventus midfielder needs to play in a less rigid midfield three.
Speaking on BT Sport after Manchester United?s 3-1 loss away to Watford, Scholes said: ?He played for three years at Juventus, in a three. He was sensational. He played in a two for France a little bit in the summer ? he wasn?t great, and played in a two this season ? he?s not been great.?
Six stats proving Paul Pogba is a complete footballer
6
SEE GALLERY
The imposing centre midfielder has been lacking influence on the field so far in his performances for the�Manchester club, despite consistently stellar performances for the Serie A champions before his long awaited return to Old Trafford.
Now we want to see Juventus Paul Pogba. He played in a brilliant team at Juventus with great experience around him not just in defence but in midfield as well. And to get the best out of him, I think he has to be in a three.
Jose Mourinho said:
Jose Mourinho said:
“I reflect on three factors from the match, but only one of them I can improve.
"The first factor depends on ourselves, it relates to our individual mistakes and collective mistakes as individual players and as a team. We have to improve something, it is in our hands.
"The second factor is the referee and I can’t control their mistakes, The story of the game is the result and not the ridiculous situation of the first goal. Against Man City you know what happened in minute 55 (Claudio Bravo's challenge on Wayne Rooney). Against Feyenoord their goal is in an offside position. I can't do nothing. We were punished by I cannot do nothing.
"The third factor is luck, we didn’t have it. We were the best team when we lost. Heurelho Gomes made a phenomenal save from a Zlatan Ibrahimovic header."
"We started the season very well and had good results. I feel the first moment we had a defeat, a difficult situation, some of the boys are having a bit of difficulty coping with the negativity.
Mourinho keen to lure Lucas Moura to Man Utd, claims agent
Mourinho keen to lure Lucas Moura to Man Utd, claims agent
The Portuguese is hoping to bring the Paris Saint-Germain winger to Old Trafford after missing out on signing him as Real Madrid boss, according to the player's representative.
Lucas was strongly linked with a move to United while at Sao Paulo before eventually joining PSG for a reported �38 million fee in 2012.
But the 24-year-old's representative, Wagner Ribeiro, claims United boss Mourinho is keen to lure his client to England after missing out on signing him while in charge of Real Madrid.
The Portuguese is hoping to bring the Paris Saint-Germain winger to Old Trafford after missing out on signing him as Real Madrid boss, according to the player's representative.
Lucas was strongly linked with a move to United while at Sao Paulo before eventually joining PSG for a reported �38 million fee in 2012.
But the 24-year-old's representative, Wagner Ribeiro, claims United boss Mourinho is keen to lure his client to England after missing out on signing him while in charge of Real Madrid.
Manchester United squad vs Watford revealed
Manchester United squad vs Watford revealed
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has named a 21-man squad for the Premier League fixture vs Watford.
Jose Mourinho is set to make at least one change to the�Manchester United�side that lost to Feyenoord against Watford after he omittedMatteo Darmian�from his 21-man squad.
Darmian made his first start of the campaign in the midweek Europa League defeat but was one of a number of players who under-performed in Rotterdam and was not spotted boarding the train to London at Stockport Station on Saturday afternoon.
Marcos Rojo,�derided by the majority of United supporters during and after his poor performance, has managed to remain in the squad.
PROMOTED STORIES
Jesse Lingard�remains sidelined after his shoddy showing in last week's derby defeat, while Timothy Fosu-Mensah will not make the matchday teamsheet, either. Injured pair Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Matteo Darmian remain unavailable.
The apparent absences of Lingard and Mkhitaryan could reprieve Juan Mata, who was substituted for the fourth time this season against Feyenoord. Mata might start on the right of United's attack, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Wayne Rooney set to be restored to the starting line-up.
United players board their train
"It's obvious we left Valencia and Shaw back to play and to be fresh," Mourinho told BT Sport. "So we go back to a normal team obviously without so many changes.
"I don?t want to go into that direction [singling out bad performers], I don't want to personalise. Some of the players were playing their first minute of the season, not many minutes for them, but some players played better than others, but I cannot just judge them after one game.
"And I have to understand one thing it's players like them playing with their best team, with the boys who play week after week and they have already six matches in competition against some of my guys who played today their first minute."
United have lost their last two games
Mourinho recently assembled 20-man squads in preparation for the Premier League games against Hull and City, as well as the trip to Feyenoord, but 21 United players travelled south on Saturday.
Fosu-Mensah could make his first appearance of the season at Northampton in the EFL Cup on Wednesday.
Mourinho last suffered three successive defeats as a manager in 2002, when he managed Portuguese club Uniao de Leiria.
Ahead of Sunday's game. Mourinho defended world record signing Paul Pogba over his recent form.
"The world record player is always a question that will be open until somebody breaks the record and I think that there are clubs that paid �20million, �30m, �40m which is a bigger deal than what Man United paid for Paul," Mourinho explained.
Blind or Smalling could start
"You make a relation between what you pay and the club revenue and you realise that other clubs paying 20, 30, �40m is a much bigger thing than what Man United did and I just want Paul to forget that and to play his football.
"He had no pre-season, Euro 2016 final, no pre-season, holidays, come back, it?s normal that in the first week he had the very good impact in the first game.
"It?s normal that after the first game he has a little decrease, but I am full of trust with him because I know the player he is. I know he is a very good guy with a lot of ambition so the form will come naturally and will come with the team improving.
"The team improves, he will improve. No problem."
Full squad: De Gea, Johnstone, Romero, Blind, Bailly, Smalling, Young, Rooney, Rashford, Shaw, Carrick, Pogba, Schneiderlin, Valencia, Martial, Depay, Fellaini, Ibrahimovic, Mata, Herrera, Rojo
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has named a 21-man squad for the Premier League fixture vs Watford.
Jose Mourinho is set to make at least one change to the�Manchester United�side that lost to Feyenoord against Watford after he omittedMatteo Darmian�from his 21-man squad.
Darmian made his first start of the campaign in the midweek Europa League defeat but was one of a number of players who under-performed in Rotterdam and was not spotted boarding the train to London at Stockport Station on Saturday afternoon.
Marcos Rojo,�derided by the majority of United supporters during and after his poor performance, has managed to remain in the squad.
PROMOTED STORIES
Jesse Lingard�remains sidelined after his shoddy showing in last week's derby defeat, while Timothy Fosu-Mensah will not make the matchday teamsheet, either. Injured pair Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Matteo Darmian remain unavailable.
The apparent absences of Lingard and Mkhitaryan could reprieve Juan Mata, who was substituted for the fourth time this season against Feyenoord. Mata might start on the right of United's attack, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Wayne Rooney set to be restored to the starting line-up.
United players board their train
"It's obvious we left Valencia and Shaw back to play and to be fresh," Mourinho told BT Sport. "So we go back to a normal team obviously without so many changes.
"I don?t want to go into that direction [singling out bad performers], I don't want to personalise. Some of the players were playing their first minute of the season, not many minutes for them, but some players played better than others, but I cannot just judge them after one game.
"And I have to understand one thing it's players like them playing with their best team, with the boys who play week after week and they have already six matches in competition against some of my guys who played today their first minute."
United have lost their last two games
Mourinho recently assembled 20-man squads in preparation for the Premier League games against Hull and City, as well as the trip to Feyenoord, but 21 United players travelled south on Saturday.
Fosu-Mensah could make his first appearance of the season at Northampton in the EFL Cup on Wednesday.
Mourinho last suffered three successive defeats as a manager in 2002, when he managed Portuguese club Uniao de Leiria.
Ahead of Sunday's game. Mourinho defended world record signing Paul Pogba over his recent form.
"The world record player is always a question that will be open until somebody breaks the record and I think that there are clubs that paid �20million, �30m, �40m which is a bigger deal than what Man United paid for Paul," Mourinho explained.
Blind or Smalling could start
"You make a relation between what you pay and the club revenue and you realise that other clubs paying 20, 30, �40m is a much bigger thing than what Man United did and I just want Paul to forget that and to play his football.
"He had no pre-season, Euro 2016 final, no pre-season, holidays, come back, it?s normal that in the first week he had the very good impact in the first game.
"It?s normal that after the first game he has a little decrease, but I am full of trust with him because I know the player he is. I know he is a very good guy with a lot of ambition so the form will come naturally and will come with the team improving.
"The team improves, he will improve. No problem."
Full squad: De Gea, Johnstone, Romero, Blind, Bailly, Smalling, Young, Rooney, Rashford, Shaw, Carrick, Pogba, Schneiderlin, Valencia, Martial, Depay, Fellaini, Ibrahimovic, Mata, Herrera, Rojo
Guardiola in Man Utd dig: 'Bournemouth are the best team we've played'
Guardiola in Man Utd dig: 'Bournemouth are the best team we've played'
The Manchester City boss referred to his side's other opponents this season as "long-ball" exponents compared to Eddie Howe's men, who suffered a 4-0 defeat at the Etihad Stadium Pep Guardiola described Bournemouth as the best team Manchester City have played this season a week after facing Jose Mourinho's Manchester United for the first time.
City cruised to a 4-0 victory over Eddie Howe's men at the Etihad Stadium but Guardiola was impressed with the way the Cherries attempted to cause his side problems.
In a thinly veiled dig at City's Manchester rivals, the Catalan went on to accuse the rest of their opponents so far this season of playing long balls.
The Manchester City boss referred to his side's other opponents this season as "long-ball" exponents compared to Eddie Howe's men, who suffered a 4-0 defeat at the Etihad Stadium Pep Guardiola described Bournemouth as the best team Manchester City have played this season a week after facing Jose Mourinho's Manchester United for the first time.
City cruised to a 4-0 victory over Eddie Howe's men at the Etihad Stadium but Guardiola was impressed with the way the Cherries attempted to cause his side problems.
In a thinly veiled dig at City's Manchester rivals, the Catalan went on to accuse the rest of their opponents so far this season of playing long balls.
Saturday, 17 September 2016
Jose Mourinho on Pogba critics
Jose Mourinho: "Having had no pre-season, Pogba had a very good impact in the first game & it’s normal that, after that, he's a little decrease."
"I’m full of trust in Pogba because I know the player he is; I know he’s a very good guy with a lot of ambition, so the form will come"
Herrera: No excuses on Sunday
Herrera: No excuses on Sunday
"We have a big squad. All the players in the squad want to show that we are here to help the team. It is not the best situation about the time between two games but this is football and we have to forget excuses, play and try to do our best."
Friday, 16 September 2016
WHY WE HAVE RECESSION: Nigerian's
WHY WE HAVE RECESSION:
* Tompolo was paid 13Billion.
* Ex-CDS,Alex Badeh dug a pit toilet to hide $32m.
* Patience Jonathan is claiming $31m, she has sued the Nigerian state.
* Femi Fani-Kayode took 740M.
* Dasuki used trucks to load over $35B from the CBN.
* Olisa Metuh took 400M.
* Aziboala, GEJ's cousin took 6B naira.
* Nenadi Usman took 3.5B naira.
* Fayose took 3B naira.
* Obanikoro took 4Billion naira.
* Olu Falae took 100M naira.
* Tony Anenih - 400M naira.
* Oritsejafor - $35M
* Former Air Chief Amosu - 2Billion naira.
* Lucky Igbinedion-16B naira.
*Bode-George and Dabo -100B naira
* Jolly Nyame-2.4B naira.
* Joshua Dariye-700M naira.
*Nyesom Wike stole #4b.
* Diezzani with $20 billion missing oil money?
15 billon dollars missing from arms fund, 10 billion naria, converted to dollars and given as gift to delegates of PDP Nation convention, Bafarawa collected 3 billion for spiritual purposes , 12. 7 billon naria for deceased NEPA staff grow wings and disappeared, 20 billion dollars missing from NNPC accounts, 23 billon naira as bribe to INEC staffs to rig the general election. The list is endless. They only left what they can't carry or unable to lay their hands on. The list continues.....
Recession didn't just happen, people looted Nigeria into happening....
* Ex-CDS,Alex Badeh dug a pit toilet to hide $32m.
* Patience Jonathan is claiming $31m, she has sued the Nigerian state.
* Femi Fani-Kayode took 740M.
* Dasuki used trucks to load over $35B from the CBN.
* Olisa Metuh took 400M.
* Aziboala, GEJ's cousin took 6B naira.
* Nenadi Usman took 3.5B naira.
* Fayose took 3B naira.
* Obanikoro took 4Billion naira.
* Olu Falae took 100M naira.
* Tony Anenih - 400M naira.
* Oritsejafor - $35M
* Former Air Chief Amosu - 2Billion naira.
* Lucky Igbinedion-16B naira.
*Bode-George and Dabo -100B naira
* Jolly Nyame-2.4B naira.
* Joshua Dariye-700M naira.
*Nyesom Wike stole #4b.
* Diezzani with $20 billion missing oil money?
15 billon dollars missing from arms fund, 10 billion naria, converted to dollars and given as gift to delegates of PDP Nation convention, Bafarawa collected 3 billion for spiritual purposes , 12. 7 billon naria for deceased NEPA staff grow wings and disappeared, 20 billion dollars missing from NNPC accounts, 23 billon naira as bribe to INEC staffs to rig the general election. The list is endless. They only left what they can't carry or unable to lay their hands on. The list continues.....
Recession didn't just happen, people looted Nigeria into happening....
NOW HEAR THE THIEVES:
1. I acted based on Jonathan's instruction - Dasuki
2. I didn't give order - Jonathan
3. I collected 350M from Dasuki for consultation - Iyorchia Ayu
4. I only collected $30,000 from Dasuki not N100m - Bode George
5. I got N4.6b from Dasuki for spiritual purposes - Bafarawa
6. I got N650M from Dasuki for my Abuja burnt office - Thisday Obaigbena.
7. I got N2.1b from Dasuki for publicity - Dokpesi
8. I got another N100m from Yuguda he didn't tell me from where - Bafarawa.
9. I gave N100m each to Odili, Jim Nwobodo Bode George and others - Yuguda
10. The president asked me to change N10B to foreign currency for PDP delegates - Dasuki
11. My boss asked me to get $11M from the CBN - Dasuki's account officer.
12. I got order from above to pay Tompolo N13B for Maritime university land. - Nimasa DG.
13. 950m was shared in my house -- Shekarau
With all this looting and many more revealed some people are still shouting no sign of change yet, they even say it's political persecution.
But I believe, it is the right thing to do.
Jose Mourinho: This is why I left Wayne Rooney out of Man United squad for Feyenoord
Jose Mourinho: This is why I left Wayne Rooney out of Man United squad for Feyenoord
“I want him to be fresh for the next Premier League match and at the same time it's the kind of attacking position where I have a lot of solutions and where people are working hard to have a chance.
“Wayne took it in a professional way, like the other ones. Valencia and Shaw didn't travel with the team. They all play in positions were I have other solutions where I prefer to have fresh players for this game and for the game at the weekend.
“We play at midday on Sunday, so I try to have a strong team here and a strong team, Sunday.”
Scholes on Pogba
Scholes on Pogba: “It’s been a little bit of a struggle for him so far. It’s still very early days, I don’t really know what position he’s playing in, watching him up there [in the stands], I’m trying to find, has he got a position? Has he been told to play where he wants? He seems to be a little all over the place at times.
“I think he’s trying to do too much now on the ball. He’s trying to beat three or four players, a lot of the time he’s running with the ball. Just keep it simple now, Paul, ease your way in. That’s not the player Man United bought, they didn’t buy a Lionel Messi to beat five players and stick it in the corner all the time. They bought a powerful, strong midfield player who can take the ball.
“He’s got the skill, he can pass it forward, he can run. Just get past players, one, two touch, stick the ball into Zlatan and run, nobody can live with that.
He’s got so much pace and power.”
“I think he’s trying to do too much now on the ball. He’s trying to beat three or four players, a lot of the time he’s running with the ball. Just keep it simple now, Paul, ease your way in. That’s not the player Man United bought, they didn’t buy a Lionel Messi to beat five players and stick it in the corner all the time. They bought a powerful, strong midfield player who can take the ball.
“He’s got the skill, he can pass it forward, he can run. Just get past players, one, two touch, stick the ball into Zlatan and run, nobody can live with that.
He’s got so much pace and power.”
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Manchester United fans SLAM Paul Pogba after ’embarassing’ cameo against Sevilla
The Frenchman started the game on the bench but entered the pitch on the hour mark for Marouane Fellaini when the tie was still 0-0 on ...
-
Thanks to Forbes, we know who the richest men in Africa are. We know Nigerian business guru, Alhaji Aliu Dangote is first on the ... -
WhatsApp will send you an update requesting you agree to their new terms and condition. Try and read the terms and condition before agree...
-
DIEGO FORLAN; NEYMAR's ROUGH TREATMENT IS A MARK OF RESPECT, IT HAPPENS TO ALL STRIKERS INCLUDING MEDIEGO FORLAN; NEYMAR's ROUGH TREATMENT IS A MARK OF RESPECT, IT HAPPENS TO ALL STRIKERS INCLUDING ME Diego Forlan writes a weekly col...